By Mark Scott
Buffalo, NY – The 2008 Catholic Charities appeal began Sunday. Organizers say $6.6 million was raised, nearly 59 percent of the $11.2 million goal.
Bishop Edward Kmiec says this is a critical time for the appeal.
"We've made progress today," Kmiec said. "But we also have a considerable gap, and I sincerely ask the generous Western New York community to bridge the gap in the coming week."
Diocesan Director Fr. Joseph Sicari says church attendance and contributions were down Sunday, mostly due to the weekend snow storm.
The Appeal continues through this coming Sunday.