Two months before its June 30 fundraising deadline, the Diocese of Scranton surpassed its $5.55 million goal through its annual appeal, the diocese announced Monday.
More than 33,000 donors gave pledges totaling $5,581,878 during the 2012 fundraising campaign, the second-highest amount ever raised from the yearly drive, according to a statement from the diocese.
"Even in the midst of a difficult economy, when the needs are greater than ever, we continue to be blessed by so many individuals and families who make personal sacrifices to support the appeal," the Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, bishop, said in the statement.
Allocation includes 8 percent of the overall fund to Catholic Social Services in response to increased need from the community for services such as soup kitchens, family counseling, veterans assistance, housing and emergency shelters.
Funds from the campaign also go toward caring for retired priests, offering faith programs to various groups in the church, parish-based religious education programs, diocesan schools, Catholic Television and the website.
Donations will be accepted until June 30. For more information, call 207-2250 or visit www.annualappeal.org. Donations can be sent to: Diocesan Annual Appeal, 300 Wyoming Ave., Scranton, PA 18503.
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