As Lent approaches, the Catholic Charities Diocese of Toledo is once again leading in the annual Rice Bowl Campaign through Catholic Relief Services (CRS).
Almost 17,000 cardboard bowls are being distributed through 100 parishes this Lent in our Diocese. Money raised goes to help an estimated 190 million people in 100 countries with life-saving support primarily by supplying food. About 75 percent of the funds raised will be used internationally, with the remaining money going to fight hunger through Catholic Charities in our local communities.
“We’re happy to coordinate the Rice Bowl Campaign in the Diocese of Toledo,” said Rodney Schuster, executive director of Catholic Charities. “Feeding the hungry is one of our foundational services, and the need has never been greater than it is now,” Schuster said. “Our food pantries, soup kitchen, and shelters have seen a nearly 60 percent increase in people reaching out for help.”
Money raised will also provide fish for ponds to help the impoverished sustain their food source. In addition, an $80 donation will provide a family with a young goat to provide milk and becomes a source of income for that family.
The bowls are being distributed through the local parishes during the Lenten season where students collect money for their individual bowls while learning about prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Each parish then collects the money after Easter and issues one check per parish to Catholic Charities. Parishes should note on the check that funds are designated for the Rice Bowl Campaign. Catholic Charities then forwards one check to CRS. “It also helps students understand that their generosity is being felt around the world in places where we can’t even imagine the living conditions,” Schuster added.
For more information about the Rice Bowl Campaign, or if your parish would like to participate, contact Catholic Charities at 419-214-4957.
Posted February 16, 2023 at 10:28 am