The Power of Community Reaches Nearly 60,000 Families - The Results of Caritas Hungary’s Advent Fundraising Campaign
Caritas Hungary’s “Open Your Hearts!” Advent fundraising campaign (launched on November 24, 2024) concluded on December 31. Thanks to the remarkable power of community, the initiative achieved significant results, reaching nearly 60,000 families in need. With heartfelt gratitude, Caritas Hungary thanks all supporters and volunteers who contributed to helping those in need.
During the Advent season, Caritas Hungary provided nearly 71,000 food packages to those in need, and over 550 tons of food were distributed nationwide by volunteers. Additionally, over 21,000 hot meals were provided to the most vulnerable through food distribution events. The "Angel-Bundle Campaign" brought joy to almost 30,000 disadvantaged children with Christmas presents, while over 500 Christmas trees enhanced the celebrations for numerous families. Beside these, more than 260 tons of firewood were distributed to struggling households during the winter months. Overall, through these diverse forms of support, Caritas Hungary was able to offer direct assistance to nearly 60,000 families.
Caritas groups organized numerous events and aid initiatives during Advent. They participated in Christmas markets in several towns, including Székesfehérvár, Győr, Szeged, Szőreg, Szegvár, and Gerendás, with proceeds dedicated to supporting those in need. Beside these, some groups also managed to raise funds through organizing craft workshops.
Christmas celebrations were organized in retirement homes, featuring special programs and gifts. Similar events were held for those living with disabilities as well. Festivities for children, including Santa Claus and Christmas parties, were also organized in locations such as Budapest, the Esztergom-Bajót region, and various parishes, welcoming hundreds of children.
Throughout the holiday season, Caritas Hungary paid special attention to those living alone - for them and all those interested, spiritual evenings and Nativity performances enriched the Advent period. Assistance was provided to individuals and families as needed in the form of medication, non-perishable food items, crisis support, and essential items such as warm clothing, hot meals, and hygiene kits for homeless individuals.
Hospitals and prisons received significant donations, including clothing and hygiene products. Community meals were organized across the country, offering festive dinners to those in need. The "One Million Stars for the Poor" campaign involved candlelight vigils to raise awareness about poverty and the importance of helping the poor.
Caritas Hungary’s national Christmas concert at St. Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest featured 90 performers and was attended by over 800 people. The event raised substantial funds for the organization’s child-focused development programs. At the traditional Advent market near the Basilica, Caritas Hungary also collected donations in exchange for handcrafted items created by individuals with disabilities.
The program’s impact was amplified by nearly 10,000 calls to the 1356 donation hotline and 39.5 million HUF (nearly 100,000 EUR) in targeted online donations. These contributions ensure that Caritas Hungary can continue to provide support to those in crisis situations all throughout winter.
Gábor Écsy, National Director of Caritas Hungary, emphasized:
"We are deeply grateful to all our supporters, staff, and volunteers who acted out of love and worked together for the most vulnerable. Together, we brought warmth into homes and, hopefully, into hearts as well. Winter is far from over, but the generous donations and countless acts of kindness give us the strength to continue providing crisis assistance."
Caritas Hungary remains committed to aiding those in need throughout the winter months by distributing warm clothing, firewood, and, if necessary, stoves, alongside other ongoing programs. The organization encourages everyone to continue supporting their work, reminding all that charity born of love should not end with the holiday season.
Caritas Hungary gladly accepts donations!
Online donations can be made at karitasz.hu. Donation via bank transfer is also possible - central bank account details: Raiffeisen Bank 12011148–00124534–00100008.
Thank you!
Katolikus Karitász - Caritas Hungarica
Photos: Attila Lambert and Zita Merényi / Magyar Kurír, Tibor Vermes, Adina Erdei