Parishes work to raise $10.7 million

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - A major fundraiser began Sunday night across Western New York as this week begins Appeal Week for Catholic Charities.

Parishes are working to collect donations for 70 programs and services supported by the Catholic Charities in the eight-county area.

The campaign is known as the drive that never fails, and the Diocese expects it to raise $10.7 million.

Bishop Richard Malone at the fundraiser said, "The need, obviously, in Western New York, is growing constantly, because of the impact of our economy and unemployment challenges and the whole list -- everyone -- I've been here 8 months, I'm still learning, but I've learned enough to know the challenge is huge, so the response through the Catholic Charities appeal needs to match it."

Catholic Charities will hold a news conference Monday morning to let everyone know how much money has been raised so far.