Mission and History

OUR MISSION

"Our purpose is to maintain the dignity and improve the quality of life of families and individuals in Herkimer County through empowerment of those in need, advocacy for a just society and collaboration with women and men of good will. By our actions and visible presence, we seek to influence others to become more aware of and responsive to human needs."

 


 

OUR HISTORY

Catholic Charities of Herkimer County opened its doors in 1980 under the name Catholic Family and Community Services, with two programs: Services for the Elderly, under the direction of Sister Rachel Ricciardelli CSJ, and Community Maternity Services, under the local leadership of Louise Leonard and Sister Stella Valerio. The agency was located in Herkimer, NY for many years. The agency moved to its current address in Ilion in 1995 and in 1997, the agency changed its name to Catholic Charities of Herkimer County. There have been many changes in services offered throughout the past three decades. We currently serve over 9,000 residents of Herkimer County by offering a wide variety of programs with the intention of improving the lives of the poor and vulnerable in the county.