Catholic Charities of Southwestern Ohio has sent a check for $184,707.71 to Catholic Charities USA to help victims of Hurricane Sandy.

Under the guidance of Archbishop of Cincinnati Dennis M. Schnurr, archdiocesan parishes took up special collections for those who suffered losses from Sandy. Contributions came from 902 generous individual donors as well as 37 parishes, five schools and seven other Catholic groups, such as religious congregations.

“We realize the full recovery will take several months and even years and that Catholic Charities USA will continue to serve the vulnerable throughout the recovery,” Ted Bergh, executive director of Community Services for the archdiocese and Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Charities of Southwestern Ohio, wrote to the national organization. “We hope that the gifts shared by the Archdiocese of Cincinnati will assist you in the vital work that you do in difficult situations. Thank you for all the essential service that you deliver to the areas severely damaged by the storm.  You make it possible to be Christ to others who suffer loss and hardships.”