History, Mission and Core Values
Our History
World War II had a devastating impact on many families in the territory of Hawai‘i. In addition, the rise of immigration increased demand for specialized services. Bishop James J. Sweeney responded to the urgent needs of children and families in Hawai‘i by inviting four Maryknoll Sisters from New York to begin a professional social welfare agency in Hawai‘i. In 1944, Sister Victoria Francis, an experienced social worker, together with a small group of Maryknoll Sisters, arrived in Honolulu to establish Catholic Charities Hawai‘i.
Incorporated in 1947, Catholic Charities Hawai‘i continues to share in the social mission of the Church by assisting people of all faiths and cultures. Our commitment to excellence in providing services and advocating for the dignity of each person with compassion remains strong. Today, Catholic Charities Hawai‘i provides services to over 25,000 people each year, especially those with the greatest need.
Mission Statement
Catholic Charities Hawai‘i, rooted in the gospel of Jesus, exists to carry out the social mission of the church by serving the people of Hawai‘i, without regard to their faith or culture.
We are a community of hope that promotes the dignity of each person by helping them empower themselves. We provide a wide range of social services with compassion and a commitment to excellence. Through our programs and our advocacy for social justice, we lovingly serve all people, especially those with the greatest need.
In the Hawaiian spirit of ‘ohana, we join with parishes, agencies, and community groups. We welcome all people of good will to share our mission.
Core Values
In all our services, decisions, and relationships, we commit to live these core values:
- The Dignity of Each Person calls us to reverence the God-given life and dignity of each person at every stage and condition of life.
- Compassion calls us, as sisters and brothers, to be present with others in their suffering and need, and to serve with a caring spirit.
- Commitment to Excellence calls us to serve competently and collaboratively.
- Social Justice calls us to be a community of hope that works to achieve the common good, promotes individual rights and responsibilities, and advocates on behalf of those with the greatest need.