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DONOR IMPACT DONATE YOUR CAR UPCOMING EVENTS BACK TO SCHOOL REMEMBRANCE ALL SOULS’ DAY MEET THE TEAM WISH LIST VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
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MESSAGE FROM THE CEO FOUNDATION
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Most Reverend Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of the Diocese of Venice in Florida
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Giving Is Easy
Your generous donation to Summertime and the Giving is Easy is much appreciated. Your contribution will protect, nourish, heal, and help so many of your neighbors in need in Southwest Florida. Thank You for being an ANGEL during difficult times and helping to change the lives of those who come to Catholic Charities for assistance.
Fall 20255
Expanding Hope and Healing: Behavioral Health Services Now Available via Telehealth Across the Diocese Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice is taking a bold step forward in providing vital care for our community. Behavioral health counseling, already a cornerstone of our mission, is now available through telehealth services across all ten counties of the Diocese. This expansion makes compassionate, professional care accessible to anyone, whether they live in a rural area, face transportation challenges, or simply feel more comfortable receiving support from home. Why Behavioral Health Matters Mental and emotional well-being touches every part of our lives. Struggles with depression, anxiety, grief, or stress are not signs of weakness, they are part of the human condition. Left untreated, however, these challenges can impact physical health, relationships, and even the health of entire communities. Behavioral health counseling can help individuals address a wide range of concerns, including: • Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loss • Anxiety, worry, or panic • Grief after the loss of a loved one • Relationship struggles or family conflict • Difficulty managing stress from work or caregiving • Loneliness or isolation • Coping with major life changes • Trauma or post-traumatic stress • Substance use or unhealthy coping mechanisms
These are real challenges faced by people every day, like neighbors, co-workers, parishioners, and even ourselves. Seeking help is not only courageous but an important step toward healing and wholeness. “When people care for their mental health, they often discover renewed strength in every part of their lives, physically, spiritually, and emotionally,” shares Erika Piñeros, Director of Behavioral Health for Catholic Charities. The Link Between Mind, Body, and Community Experts have long recognized the powerful connection between mental health and physical health. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to physical illness, while chronic illness often worsens emotional struggles. Addressing behavioral health needs can reduce doctor visits, improve recovery, and even extend life expectancy. But the impact goes far beyond the individual. When people feel supported and cared for: • Families experience healthier relationships • Workplaces become more productive • Communities grow stronger and more resilient In this way, behavioral health care is truly a form of community health care. As people heal and find new strength, they are better able to contribute, connect, and thrive.
(Expanding Hope continued on page 3)