SunTrust Foundation Supports Community Strengthening Work of Catholic Charities USA

ALEXANDRIA, Va., July 13, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Low-income adults looking for better jobs, families looking to build brighter futures, and individuals working toward financial goals will all be supported on their journey thanks to a new grant from the SunTrust Foundation to Catholic Charities USA (CCUSA).

CCUSA, whose national network helped more than nine million individuals in need on their journey out of poverty last year, will receive a $230,000 grant from the SunTrust Foundation to help build and strengthen communities nationwide.

The funding will support a workforce development model being pioneered by Catholic Charities which helps low-income individuals develop the skills they need to compete for and attain jobs. Funds will also go toward a financial education program entitled "Your Money, Your Goals," and to Abriendo Puertas ("Opening Doors") a bi-lingual family strengthening program developed for Latino parents.

"Our network would not be able to live out its mission of service without the generous support of benefactors like the SunTrust Foundation," said Sister Donna Markham, OP, PhD, president and CEO of CCUSA. "This grant will strengthen the ability of our network to respond to the challenges facing those in need. We are grateful for their support and belief in our network, and are excited about how it will expand our ability to live out the Gospel and serve those most in need."

"The SunTrust Foundation proudly supports Catholic Charities USA and its efforts to provide job-readiness training and financial planning to low or moderate income families and individuals," said David Fuller, SunTrust Foundation President. "This grant will enhance the work already underway and provide a pathway to financial well-being for those served by the CCUSA network."

About Catholic Charities USA
Catholic Charities USA (CCUSA) is the national office for Catholic Charities agencies nationwide. Catholic Charities USA's members provide help and create hope to more than 9 million people a year regardless of religious, social, or economic backgrounds. To learn more about CCUSA, please visit our website at www.catholiccharitiesusa.org

About The SunTrust Foundation
The SunTrust Foundation's mission is to provide monetary support to nonprofit organizations and institutions engaged in activities promoting education, health and human services, culture and art, and civic and community involvement that contribute to the social and economic development primarily in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic.

SOURCE SunTrust Foundation