Catholic Community Services Utah Saves Refugee Program with Local Donations
Washington, D.C. – April 29, 2025 – Despite recent federal funding cuts, Catholic Community Services (CCS) of Utah has successfully secured over $1.5 million in donations, ensuring the continuation of its refugee support programs in Salt Lake City.
In early April, CCS announced the winding down of its refugee resettlement program, which provides essential assistance to refugees rebuilding their lives after facing persecution and violence. The organization had reported a loss of more than $2.5 million in annual federal aid, threatening the viability of the vital support services they provide.
However, in a surprising turn of events, CCS stated that community support surged following their announcement. "Something remarkable happened. Our community rallied,” the organization noted, emphasizing the crucial role of a significant anonymous donation among the responses from individuals, foundations, and partners.
As a result, CCS will not close its refugee program but will adapt it into a new, privately funded model. This transition allows them to continue offering resettlement services, albeit on a smaller scale, aimed at maintaining critical support for immigrant families in Utah. The organization is now seeking an additional $1 million from the broader community to sustain and possibly expand its offerings.
The funds will help address the pressing needs of refugee clients through six key pillars: case management, housing assistance, employment readiness, youth education support, mental health services, and community engagement. CCS reaffirmed its commitment to fostering long-term self-sufficiency within refugee families, stating that while the program will operate at reduced capacity, the core services remain essential.
"This transformation ensures we can uphold our mission while adapting to a changing national landscape," the organization concluded.
Tessa Gervasini reports.
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