The push is on to help Catholic Charities raise funding. So far, the annual Appeal has raised about 68 percent of its $10.7 million goal.The 2013 Appeal has raised $7.28 million, so far. Campaign chairman Steve Ulrich says with state and local governments tightening their belts, demand for the organization's many services is increasing.
"It's unfortunate that our need for services grows because it tells is a lot about the fact that we live in an area with the fifth poorest city in the county," Ulrich says.
Ulrich says while donations are "trending nicely" at the parish level, he is hopeful the business community also steps up.
"They're increasing their giving this year and we're hopeful that they'll help get us over the top," Ulrich says.
Appeal Week runs through Sunday. The drive ends on June 30.
The funds raised will help support 70 programs and services offered by Catholic Charities in 61 sites across Western New York.