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In the midst of these challenging times, we in the Diocese of St. Petersburg feel blessed and grateful to have participated in the Paycheck Protection Program, which is providing much-needed funds to essential workers. During the shutdown and to this day, we have worked hard to continue serving our community. The novel coronavirus has only intensified the needs of the people we serve and the demand for our ministries. The loans enabled our essential ministries to continue to function in a time of national emergency. The work of Catholic Charities in the community during this critical time would not have been possible without this support. The funds that were loaned to our diocesan entities are being used to support teachers, staff and others who serve our community in various ministries and outreach programs.
Close to 80 of our parishes, schools and charities associated with the Diocese of St. Petersburg applied for the loan program. These are all separate employers with fewer than 500 employees. Shutdown orders and the economic fallout associated with the virus have affected everyone, including Catholic ministries. The Paycheck Protection Program loans were on average about $220,000 per employer and kept employees on the payroll so they could afford housing and medical expenses, food and other household bills.
We are proud of our employees and what they do in and for our community. It is our responsibility as employers to try to protect them and their families. The funds are being used to do just that during this difficult time in our community.
- Bishop Gregory Parkes
