The U.S. House of Representatives has formally recognized what millions of struggling Americans who have been helped by Catholic Charities agencies have long known – that the organization is an invaluable resource for those in need.

The House passed a resolution Dec. 17 introduced by Rep. Rush Holt of New Jersey’s 12th District to recognize the work of Catholic Charities USA in honor of the organization’s 100th anniversary. In addition to commemorating the agency’s centennial, the resolution further states that the House “honors and praises Catholic Charities USA for being a national leader in the efforts to fight poverty and to strengthen the United States in times of need and crisis.”

“With this resolution, we celebrate the 100th anniversary of this historic organization that is a force for good and a leading voice in the United States for compassionate service and care and for social reform,” said Holt.

The announcement of the resolution’s passage was met with appreciation from Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., who expressed his gratitude to Rep. Holt for introducing the measure in Congress.

“So much good has been accomplished in our country through the Church's organized charities over the last 100 years, not only for Catholics but for all people in need,” Bishop O’Connell said. “May the good work continue for another century.”

Founded in 1910 as the National Conference of Catholic Charities on the campus of The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., the agency has assisted local diocesan offices in “efforts to reduce poverty, support families, and empower communities,” the resolution notes.

The Washington-based agency, which was renamed Catholic Charities USA in 1986, has remained committed to addressing a wide range of issues including immigration, human trafficking, parenthood, disaster response and climate change. Through its work, Catholic Charities is able to “provide help and create hope for more than 8.5 million people each year, regardless of faith,” the resolution states.

Francis E. Dolan, executive director of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Trenton, said the agency was “humbled and honored” by the Congressional recognition.

“It is particularly encouraging to receive this today because the challenge to assist the growing number of families and individuals in need has increased dramatically this last year,” he said.

Father Larry Snyder, president of Catholic Charities USA, also expressed his appreciation for the House of Representatives’ recognition of the organization’s work.

“It is a rewarding tribute to the staff and volunteers of our agencies who have served those in need over the past 100 years, and recognition of the important work that lies ahead of us as we begin our second century of commitment to the reduction of poverty in America,” Father Snyder said.