Additional Programs and Ministries
The Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany oversees several additional programs, as well as diocesan-wide ministries and initiatives. Diocesan liaisons for the Catholic Campaign for Human Development and Catholic Relief Services are housed within Catholic Charities. More information about specialty programs, including Immigration Legal Assistance and Disaster Response and Recovery, can be found below.
Immigration Legal Services
This program provides immigration-related legal services for low-income clients. Services include consultation, counseling, and preparation of petitions and applications for benefits, lawful permanent residency, and U.S. citizenship. It also assists individuals who are victims of human trafficking.
Contact: Paula Read, Immigration Counselor/BIA Accredited Representative
Immigration Attorney: David W. Meyers, Esq.
Jail Ministry
This program provides ministerial and pastoral services for individuals incarcerated in county jails throughout the Diocese. The following services are available: sacramental ministry, including Mass and Communion services, and Reconciliation; pastoral visits in the housing units; counseling, and religious materials such as Bibles, rosary cards, and reading materials.
Contact: Michelle Thivierge
Email:
Catholic Campaign for Human Development
The Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) is the domestic anti-poverty social justice program of the U.S. Catholic Bishops. The mission of the program is to address the root causes of poverty, to educate Catholics, and to work to change the systems that oppress the poor. It's the local contact for funding opportunities for community organizing and economic grants.
Contact: Michelle Thivierge
Email:
Catholic Relief Services
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the overseas aid program of the U.S. Catholic Bishops, which utilizes Catholic Social teachings to guide Catholics in building bonds of global solidarity through education, direct action, advocacy, partnerships, and service. CRS disseminates information on emergency response, agriculture, education, healthcare, HIV/AIDS, microfinance, small enterprise, and peacebuilding.
Contact: Michelle Thivierge
Email:
Commission on Peace and Justice
The Commission assists Catholics and the broader community in understanding and responding to God's call to human solidarity, as found in Scripture, the witness and teachings of Jesus, and the social doctrine of the Church. This heritage addresses economic and social justice, stewardship of the earth's resources, human rights, and the nonviolent resolution of conflicts.
Contact: Deacon Walter Ayres, Director
Phone: 518-453-6695
Email: