The leader of the Archdiocese of Baltimore has alerted those affected by the ongoing government shutdown that America’s first and oldest diocese stands ready to help.
Archbishop William E. Lori said Monday that the archdiocese — which claims half a million members in Baltimore City and nine counties in central and western Maryland — will continue to operate its many charitable programs as long as the shutdown lasts and beyond.
The services the archdiocese makes available to members of the public include free meals, direct help with rent and utilities, emergency housing, and family and counseling support.
They’re the same ones the archdiocese provides for those in need year-round, but Lori said he wanted to place special emphasis on their availability during a time of unusual instability.
“Government shutdowns have far-reaching consequences, but they take a particularly heavy toll on the most vulnerable among us – families living paycheck to paycheck, parents worried about feeding their children, and seniors already balancing the cost of medications and groceries,” Lori said in a statement. “When vital government services are interrupted or delayed, the result is more than an inconvenience – it can mean hunger, anxiety, and hardship for our brothers and sisters in need.”
At such difficult moments, “we are called to stand in solidarity with those who suffer, to walk alongside them, and to be a source of hope in times of uncertainty,” he added.
Lori specifically mentioned Catholic Charities, the nonprofit whose 80 charitable programs across the state include providing food for thousands each day, as well as offering mental health and counseling services. He encouraged anyone in need to call the organization at (667) 600-2000.
He also cited the work of The St. Vincent de Paul Society of Baltimore, which offers direct assistance for rent and other expenses in many parishes. The organization also continues to operate the Beans & Bread Day Services Program, which provides breakfast and a hot lunch to hundreds of people per day, Monday through Friday. He cited the society’s number as (410) 662-0500.
Lori mentioned that many parishes operate food pantries and assistance programs and are open to anyone in need of groceries or meals. He added that anyone interested can find a nearby parish to inquire about what services they offer.
“Our ministries remain open and active, providing care and support across central and western Maryland,” he said.
Lori’s announcement comes as President Donald Trump’s administration says it will cut off Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits — commonly known as food stamps — on Nov. 1, which about 1 in 8 Americans rely on.
The shutdown, already the second-longest in history, is stretching into its fourth week without any end in sight. The White House has blamed Congressional Democrats for not voting to end the standoff.
The Baltimore archdiocese incorporates Baltimore City as well as Allegany, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick, Garrett, Harford, Howard, and Washington counties.
Have a news tip? Contact Jonathan M. Pitts at jonpitts@baltsun.com.