02/10/2023
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Marks 80 Years of Global Humanitarian Impact
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) proudly commemorates eight decades of unwavering service to humanity. As a leading humanitarian Organization, it has transformed many livelihood and communities through humanitarian support in over 100 countries across the five continents with a legacy full of compassionate services that transcends beyond religious and ethnic boundaries.
Established in 1943 with a mission to assist survivors of World War II in Europe, CRS has evolved into a symbol of compassion, solidarity, and empowerment, touching the lives of countless individuals worldwide. This momentous occasion underscores CRS's deep commitment to its Catholic faith, fruitful partnerships, and its dedication to working alongside our global human family. They have helped in sectors like health, agriculture, multisectoral nutrition, microfinance, emergency response, HIV care, treatment and services for orphans and vulnerable children.
Reflecting on CRS's remarkable journey, Robert Mgeni, Head of Programmes at CRS, highlighted the organization's focus on youth programs, stating, "We have youth programs in various counties that ensure the youths are employed and included in our activities." He also emphasized CRS's commitment to excellence, adding, "We have specific personnel mandated with the work of monitoring and evaluating the activities we do, to see if they are going as planned and if not, what needs to be changed to better them."
Here in Kenya, September 30th 2023, the celebrations were marked across different sectors by the CRS Kenya chapter celebrated at a colorful event with some of the communities and beneficiaries in attendance as well as Catholic Bishops across all regions of the country, that all converged at the Trademark Hotel, located in Gigiri, Nairobi.
Margaret Kahiga, Deputy Chief of Party for USAID Nawiri, shared insights into CRS's fight against malnutrition, stating, "The fight against malnutrition has shown positive results with a decrease in the number of malnutrition cases. We have put measures such as drilling boreholes to ensure people in semi-arid areas have access to clean water."
On his part, Bill O'Keefe, Executive Vice President of Mission and Mobilization at CRS, expressed pride in Kenya's development progress, saying, "Kenya is a model for the success of development, and we are proud of the continuing progress going on here. We value the solidarity of everyone involved so that we can work as one and move forward together in the same direction."
He emphasized their preparedness to handle disasters especially emanating from the global warming and climate change with expected El Nino rains set to kick in this month. As they also helped communities ravaged by the drought early in the year, so will be the CRS be accelerating more support to the communities expected to be worst hit by incoming rains as well as other underlying challenges like malnutrition, flooding and health challenges.
CRS's projects in Kenya encompass a diverse array of initiatives, including agriculture, health, multisectoral nutrition, microfinance, emergency response, HIV care and treatment, and services for orphans and vulnerable children. These projects aim to uplift communities, fostering sustainable development and lasting positive change.
As CRS celebrates its 80th anniversary, the organization is committed to creating platforms for constructive dialogues to raise awareness of its ongoing projects in Kenya. The central theme, "Globally Rooted; Community Led," underscores CRS's commitment to collaborating closely with communities to address their unique needs.
To ensure clear and consistent messaging during the CRS@80 event and beyond, CRS is actively developing a messaging framework and seeking opportunities to enhance visibility, build relationships with stakeholders, and inspire confidence and motivation among partners.
Founded in 1943 to serve those affected by the aftermath of World War II, CRS has remained true to its Catholic identity and mission. As the official international agency of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, CRS continues to serve our brothers and sisters in need, regardless of creed, ethnicity, or nationality.
Operating in over 100 countries across five continents, CRS partners with local churches, non-church entities, and governments to implement programs that alleviate suffering and promote development.
In a rapidly changing world, CRS remains steadfast in its mission to provide hope, relief, and sustainable solutions. As it marks 80 years of service, CRS looks forward to a future filled with continued compassion, solidarity, and impactful partnerships that will change lives for generations to come.
For media inquiries and further information about CRS's 80th-anniversary celebrations, please contact: CRS Communications Department.
