The mission of Catholic Charities Archdiocese of San Antonio, Inc. is to provide for the needs of our community through selfless service under the sign of love. Their values are stewardship, service, excellence, and advocacy.
Imelda Villarreal first became familiar with Catholic Charities when her children were in elementary school and she was a single mother balancing work and school. She was given assistance for after-school care, where her children were picked up from school, helped with homework, given recreational activities, and provided a warm meal. This support allowed her to keep her job and continue her education, and she later graduated and became a medical assistant. In addition to childcare, Catholic Charities supported her family with a food pantry, referrals, holiday assistance, and utility help. Years later, after getting back on her feet and starting her own business, she experienced further hardship when her father passed away and as she supported her mother, a brain tumor survivor, during her medical challenges, she again turned to the organization for help.
The impact of this support has been long-lasting for Imelda and her family. She describes Catholic Charities as a place that has never turned her away, no matter how much time has passed, and as a safe place for her and her children. For Imelda, the assistance she has received as a single parent and during times of struggle has made a meaningful difference and provided encouragement to keep moving forward.
Learn more about Catholic Charities Archdiocese of San Antonio, Inc. here.