Catholic Relief Services
4 members Public
The official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States.
History
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) was founded in 1943 by the bishops of the United States, originally to aid refugees and survivors of World War II in Europe. What began as wartime relief grew into one of the world's largest international humanitarian organizations.
Guided by Catholic social teaching, CRS expanded its mission over the decades to serve people in need across Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe — without regard to race, religion, or nationality. Its work spans emergency response, agriculture, health, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding.
Today CRS reaches well over 100 million people in around 100 countries each year, partnering with local communities and the global Church to respond to disasters and to address the root causes of poverty.
What they do
- Emergency relief after disasters and conflict
- Food security, agriculture, and clean-water programs
- Health, education, and economic-opportunity initiatives
- Peacebuilding and support for refugees and migrants
How to get involved
CRS is a humanitarian agency rather than a membership group — you support its mission. You can donate, fundraise, volunteer through the CRS Ambassador and chapter programs, or take part in CRS Rice Bowl during Lent. Visit the official website to give or get involved.
Official links
Catholic Relief Services chapters
Local chapters from our directory.
