A snapshot of Catholic service in the U.S.
Education
The Catholic Church runs the largest network of private schools in the United States. Over 2.6 million students are enrolled in its 7,142 elementary schools and 1,376 high schools. 3,195 Catholic schools-or almost 40%-had waiting lists for admission for the 2002-2003 academic year. 13.4% of students at Catholic schools in 2003, or 341,819, are non-Catholic. Minority enrollment in Catholic schools for 20022003 was 663,682, or 26% of total enrollment. 99% of Catholic secondary school students graduate, and 97% go on to post-secondary education.
Catholic Charities, USA
The Catholic Charities network is the nation's fourth largest non-profit, according to The NonProfit Times. The combined revenue of the Catholic Charities network from all sources, public and private, was $2.69 billion in 2000. Nearly 90 % of these funds were spent on programs and services, making the Catholic Charities network one of the country's most efficient charities. Today, the Catholic Charities network-more than 1,400 local agencies and institutions nationwide-provide help, sometimes with government funding, and create hope for more than seven million people a year, regardless of religious, social, or economic backgrounds thanks to the dedication of more than 51,000 staff and 175,000 volunteers
Humanitarian Aid
Founded in 1943 by the U.S. Bishops, Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official overseas relief and development agency of the U.S. Catholic community. CRS provides direct aid to the poor, and involves people in their own development, helping them to realize their potential. CRS reached 62 million people in 91 countries and territories in 2002, bringing relief in the wake of disasters and offering hope and the opportunity to achieve self-sufficiency to the poorest of the poor.
Health Care
Catholic health and social service organizations have a long tradition of service in the United States.
Today, the Catholic nonprofit health-care system serves diverse populations in every state in the United States. 565 Catholic hospitals account for 11% of community hospitals in the United States, and 16% of all U.S. hospital admissions. Annual Catholic hospital expenses for 2001 were $59.1 billion, 15% of total community hospital expenses.
Migration and Refugee Services
Over the past 25 years, the Catholic church in the United States-through the USCCB's Migration and Refugee Services (MRS) has resettled 883,740 refugees, or 32% of the total number of refugees admitted to the United States. The 2001 MRS budget was $48.2 million, the majority of which was comprised of government grants. MRS carries out the commitment of the bishops to serve and advocate for immigrants, refugees, migrants, and people on the move.
For more statistical information on the scope of service provided by Catholics and Catholic agencies
in the United States, please visit www.usccb.org/comm/cip.htm.