Catholic Charities of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties

WASHINGTON, DC -On January 15, 2009, Ken F. Sawa, CEO of Catholic Charities San Bernardino/ Riverside, testified at a briefing sponsored by Senator Edward Kennedy’s Office. The topic of the briefing centered around advocacy for those in poverty, with hopes of influencing Congress and the new administration in the creation of their 2009 Economic Stimulus Package. He was among national leaders who gathered to help influence the policy-makers create new strategies, partnerships and innovative thinking that, if successful, could lead to a recovery where no one is left out.

“It was my privilege to travel to Washington, D.C. to articulate the challenges currently facing those on the ‘Back Streets’ and to acknowledge that population’s increase currently and the expected increase in the near future,” said Mr. Sawa.

His selection to be a prominent voice for the poor stemmed from a radio interview on Sirius Radio were his comments were heard by Candy S. Hill, Senior Vice President for Social Policy and Government Affairs, Catholic Charities USA. Ms. Hill at the time was arranging the Washington briefing and found Mr. Sawa’s message, an extremely compelling, rallying cry for the most neglected in community.

“There has been lots of talk about resources for Wall Street and those on Main Street,” said Sawa. “but not a mention of families that live on the “Back Streets” and long to live on Main Street someday.”

The advocacy for those in poverty “must be addressed in the economic recovery packages” said Candy S. Hill, Senior Vice President for Social Policy and Government Affairs, Catholic Charities USA. Her office Catholic Charities USA represents a network of more than 1,700 Catholic Charities agencies and institutions nationwide—providing helping and hope for more than 7.8 million people of all faiths a year.