Give to the Max 2023!

November 7, 2023

Catholic Charities to participate in 15th Annual Give to the Max Day on November 16!

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud is proud to participate in the 15th annual Give to the Max Day on Thursday, Nov. 16. Give to the Max is a statewide, grassroots giving event that raises tens of millions of dollars each year for more than 6,000 causes across Minnesota and beyond. Considered Minnesota’s holiday for generosity, donors have given more than $290 million to more than 10,000 organizations since the inaugural Give to the Max Day in 2009.

 

Catholic Charities is one of the largest social service nonprofit organizations in Central Minnesota, with programs that provide food, shelter, basic everyday essentials, mental and behavioral health services, supportive living services, financial counseling and more. In 2022, Catholic Charities served 44,205 people across 16 counties in Central Minnesota. Donations support more than 20 programs across these areas.

 

“We are extremely grateful for the support we have received from our friends and neighbors here in the heart of Minnesota during Give to the Max,” said Chad Johnson, Director of Organizational Advancement, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud. “It’s no surprise that our state dedicates and supports 24 hours of giving to nonprofits and schools statewide because we see the generosity of our community every day.”


To participate in Give to the Max in support of Catholic Charities, visit ccstcloud.org/donate-funds or go to givemn.org/organization/Ccstcloud.


“Give to the Max is a celebration of Minnesotan generosity and the impact it has in every community across our state,” said Jake Blumberg, executive director of GiveMN. “Every year, we start at $0 and are humbled by the power hundreds of thousands of gifts can have when our community gives together during Minnesota’s giving holiday.”

 

Give to the Max’s Early Giving period began November 1 and continues through Give to the Max Day on Nov. 16, with random drawings throughout for more than $100,000 in prize grants for Minnesota organizations.

 

Additionally, each donation through GiveMN.org qualifies Catholic Charities for additional prize grants, thanks to the continued generosity of the Bush Foundation. Through this year’s campaign, GiveMN will award:

  • $500 Early Giving Golden Tickets daily on Nov. 1-15
  • $500 Golden Ticket prizes every 15 minutes on Nov. 16
  • $1,000 Hourly Golden Ticket prizes hourly on Nov. 16
  • $6,000 Power Hours, shared among the top three organizations based on amount raised between 10:00–10:59 a.m. and 10:00–10:59 p.m. on Nov. 16
  • The grand prize of Give to the Max Day, a $10,000 Super-Sized Golden Ticket, drawn from all gifts made from Nov. 1-16

 

Together, we can make a different tomorrow for our friends and neighbors in Central Minnesota.


Our Recent News

More than Just a Meal

By Brittany Hoversten • December 9, 2025
Our Senior Dining programs offer more than just a meal – they provide a nurturing environment that fosters friendships, healing, and a sense of belonging. Roberta, a Senior Dining Coordinator for 15 years, has witnessed the powerful impact of our services at the Grasston and Mora locations. Among the many events that have touched her heart, one couple’s journey stands out as a beautiful testament to the healing power of community. A woman who had recently suffered a stroke, faced significant challenges. Most of her right side, including her vision, was affected, and she was determined to regain her independence. After her therapy sessions, she and her husband would come to Senior Dining, where they found not only a meal but a circle of support and care. Every visit, a group of women diners would greet them with warm smiles, helping with her jacket and guiding the couple to their table. These kind-hearted women went beyond mere kindness – they helped the woman with her meal and made sure she was comfortable and well-cared for throughout the dining experience. Over time, the woman’s strength and independence began to improve. The therapy sessions, combined with the unwavering support of her new friends at Senior Dining, made a significant difference in her recovery. The bonds formed in that dining hall grew stronger, evolving into genuine friendships that transcended just shared meals. What had started as a place for nourishment soon became a sanctuary of laughter, conversation, and companionship. It was clear that the true nourishment was not just the food – it was the emotional and social support the diners received, creating an atmosphere that was as healing as it was comforting. The couple still maintains their deep friendships with the group of women they met at Senior Dining. Even in their 80s and 90s, they continue to get together three or four times a year, reminiscing about the meals that sustained them, the friendships that uplifted them, and the kindness that made all the difference. For Roberta, this story is a reminder of the true essence of her work. It’s not just about coordinating meals – it’s about creating a community where people care for one another, lifting each other up in times of need. 

Catholic Charities Barnes & Noble Bookfair – December 12, 2025

By Brittany Hoversten • December 8, 2025
Get your holiday shopping done while supporting a great cause! Catholic Charities is partnering with Barnes & Noble in St. Cloud for a Bookfair on Thursday, December 12, 2025 . A percentage of your purchase will benefit Catholic Charities’ programs—just mention you're shopping to support Catholic Charities at checkout! Shop in-store or online: In-store: Visit Barnes & Noble in St. Cloud on December 12 and let the cashier know you're supporting Catholic Charities. Online: Shop at https://www.bn.com/bookfairs from December 12–16, 2025 and enter Bookfair ID 12695763 at checkout. How to apply the Bookfair ID online: Add items to your cart and proceed to checkout. Scroll to the bottom of the checkout page. Click the plus sign next to “Add Bookfair ID.” Enter 12695763 and click Apply . Everything counts! Books, DVDs, music, vinyl, toys & games, and even Café purchases (except Starbucks-operated locations). Stock up for the holidays and help support Catholic Charities’ vital services in our community. Note: Gift cards, memberships, textbooks, video games, digital content (eBooks), and purchases at Starbucks-owned Cafés are excluded from Bookfair totals. Institutional discounts may not be applied.

A Family's Fight to Stay Home

By Brittany Hoversten • November 12, 2025
Allie and Ben’s dream of owning their first home came under threat when Ben unexpectedly lost his job. With two young children at home, Allie balanced evening classes while Ben had a steady income. However, when Ben lost his job, he struggled to make mortgage payments and, feeling overwhelmed, kept the issue hidden from Allie until it was too late. The arrival of a “sheriff sale” notice signaled their impending foreclosure. Determined to protect their home and their family, Allie turned to Catholic Charities’ Financial and Housing Counseling team for help. With guidance from a counselor, Allie learned about the foreclosure process and the potential solutions available to them. Together, they worked closely with the mortgage company, exploring options to address the overdue payments. After persistent efforts, Allie and Ben were able to negotiate a resolution that would prevent foreclosure. Thanks to the support they received, Allie and Ben were able to keep their home, which not only brought them financial stability but also strengthened their bond as a couple. Allie reflected on the importance of teamwork and open communication, acknowledging the valuable lesson they learned through the experience. “I’m so grateful for the support we received,” Allie said. “It taught us that facing challenges together is key to protecting what matters most—our home and our children.” Catholic Charities’ Financial and Housing Counseling program, which has been providing expert guidance since 1982, is available to anyone, regardless of income. As a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)-licensed provider, our team is committed to helping families like Allie and Ben navigate financial challenges and build a secure future.