This week, the Diocese of Trenton is inviting the community to support Catholic schools by participating in #GivingTuesday on Dec. 1.
Set annually for the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, #Giving Tuesday supporters are asked to make a donation, and/or to commit to volunteer for their local Catholic school or to offer prayers for the mission of Catholic education.
Donations are being accepted now at www.leadinfaith.org, where donors can find more information and search for a particular Catholic school in the Diocese to support. All funds raised will go to directly to participants’ school of choice.
Dr. Vincent Schmidt, diocesan superintendent of schools, noted that during COVID, support for Catholic schools is more important than ever.
“We have students that need more financial support now than in past years,” he explained in a letter to Catholic school alumni. “Our schools have had to step up spending for health-related costs due to COVID protocols. As a result, budgets are tight.
“Your support, along with many of your classmates, will ensure our Catholic schools are here today and tomorrow,” Dr. Schmidt continued. “Educating the next generation. Imparting the same Gospel values that formed your life.”
The Diocese has participated in #Giving Tuesday since 2016, and donations are already being accepted through the Lead in Faith website. The site will also soon feature a new #Giving Tuesday video, links to Facebook coverage and a livestreamed event from the Chancery.
“Realizing that these are difficult financial times for many, we encourage the use of the Say a Prayer or Volunteer options available [as giving options] on the website,” said Christine Prete of the diocesan Department of Development. “Volunteering may also be an obstacle, but we can always help build a volunteer list for the future! Help is always needed!”
#GivingTuesday is a global generosity movement created in 2012 as “a day that encourages people to do good.”