I had the profound honor of working with Catholic Charities, USA, during my time as the Director of the Office of Human Services Emergency Preparedness and Response at the Administration for Children and Families. CCUSA exemplifies charity and efficiency, setting a standard for how compassion can drive action. My time with them was transformative—not only in learning the intricacies of disaster response but in rediscovering the essence of humanity and the depth of my own compassion.

When we responded to Hurricanes Gustav and Ike in Louisiana, CCUSA’s generosity extended far beyond logistical support. They invited me to stay at their retreat house, offering me a room once used by the Sisters, full access to their kitchen, and the sacred stillness of the Bishop’s chapel. They encouraged me to spend as much time as I needed there, creating a space where I could reflect deeply and connect with something greater than myself. Their kindness and faith left an indelible mark on my heart and spirit.

Through their example, I came to realize that my focus on government processes had obscured the very humanity those systems were meant to serve. CCUSA reminded me that addressing suffering is not about policy alone—it is about people. Their unwavering mission to uplift others taught me to see the world with new eyes and an open heart.

God bless Catholic Charities, USA, and the vital work they do. They embody the spirit of compassion, and to attack them is to misunderstand the very essence of service and humanity. They changed my life, and for that, I will forever be grateful. Through their work with us a national disaster case management program was created to help the poor and underserved in the darkest of times.