Dennis Gibson, chair of the Light the World Committee, presented a check to Laura Foley of Catholic Charities of Oregon April 7.

When refugees arrive in Oregon, they can be deeply traumatized and therefore afraid to move forward. Haunted by all that happened in their home countries and in refugee camps, they may choose to hide in their homes. At Catholic Charities, it’s our job to have hope for them until they can hold hope for themselves.

There may be fewer refugees arriving in Oregon, but those resettled by Catholic Charities in recent months remember move-in day to their new apartments.

Many who attended our Celebration of Hope gala Feb. 27 asked us to post remarks given by our interim executive director, Kaleen Deatherage. We are glad to do so.

PHOTO ABOVE: Mary’s Cousins, a group at Resurrection Catholic Parish, makes prayer shawls, baby blankets, hats and scarves for those who are suffering or in need. They are shown working behind a pile of bags holding 106 warm blankets they created for Catholic Charities clients. Roberta Dechert and Lois Miles are seated at left; Veda…

A group of quilters linked to First Congregational United Church of Christ in Portland has donated more than 40 full-sized quilts to Catholic Charities. The hope is to provide welcome, warmth and comfort to refugee and migrant families in Oregon.

The Joseph E. Weston Public Foundation, a supporting entity of the Oregon Community Foundation, has given more than $225 million in grants and scholarships since it was formed in 1991.

The late John Brockamp donated his family farm so Catholic Charities could build its largest affordable housing community to date, 142-unit Good Shepherd Village in Happy Valley. A careful observer of the stunning and colorful property will note that small plaques with Brockamp’s name are affixed to two stylish little libraries on site. The plaques…

Sitting in a circle of metal folding chairs, a group recites the 12-Step prayer in unison. It could be any night in any church basement.

In response to the new administration’s executive orders focused on immigration, I am in accord with the statement given by the President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio.