About Catholic Relief Services
Catholic Relief Services was founded in 1943 by the Catholic Bishops of the United States to serve World War II survivors in Europe. Since then, it has expanded to reach more than 100 million people in 101 countries on five continents. Learn more about CRS’
history and
its work overseas.
CRS’s two-fold
mission is to assist impoverished and disadvantaged people overseas, and to help Catholics in the United States to live their faith in solidarity with the poor and suffering people of the world. Following the example of Jesus Christ, CRS responds to emergencies, provides development
assistance, and fosters peaceful methods of conflict resolution. Its Guiding Principles are the seven principles of Catholic Social Teaching, and fidelity to its
Catholic identity. Its mission is rooted in the Catholic faith, but it serves people based solely on need, regardless of their race, religion or ethnicity, helping them to reach their full potential and to realize their dignity as children of God.
CRS helps United States Catholics become global disciples through spirituality and support of its work in the areas of emergency response, development, health, education and conflict resolution. Through the generosity of the people of the Arlington Diocese to CRS's Rice Bowl program, we are able to help relieve hunger
in our own diocese through our diocesan Rice Bowl grant program.
Click below to learn the many ways you can participate
in CRS’ work right here in the Arlington Diocese.
Photo credit: Photo below of school students with cardboard rice bowls by Jim Stipe/Catholic Relief Services