This year we are celebrating our 60th anniversary!
“Caritas” is Latin for love and compassion, two words that are at the heart of what we do, and what motivates us to show up every day to help some of the most vulnerable people in the world.
Here are 5 fun facts you may not know about us:
Photo: Catholic Weekly 1967
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We were founded in 1964
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Our original name was The Catholic Overseas Relief Committee
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We became Caritas Australia in 1996
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Our first Lenten appeal was to raise money for a fishing boat in the Tiwi Islands
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Our Lenten appeal has become Project Compassion, which raised $9.5 million in 2023.
Here are some reflections from our community on what 60 years of Caritas Australia have meant:
60 Years Strong! Hear from the Caritas Australia Community
Join us as we celebrate 60 years of walking alongside the world's most vulnerable communities to end poverty, promote justice and uphold dignity.
60 years of bringing hope, strength and change to some of the most vulnerable communities in the world would not have been possible without you, our community of supporters. Your ongoing commitment to supporting our mission and your generosity have been pivotal in helping us uphold dignity and promote justice for six whole decades. Last year alone, we were able to reach over 1.5 million people across 36 countries.
Our connection to the Catholic Church and community continues to be a core part of who we are, with the generous spirit and organising capacity of Parishes and schools around the country helping to promote social justice across the world.
We will be celebrating our 60th anniversary all year – keep watching our pages for more exciting updates to come. Find out more below.
Caritas Australia's 60th anniversary
Photo: The Catholic Weekly 1969
