There was music, dancing, good food and a wonderful spirit of giving recently when Catholic Charities New Hampshire hosted its 11^th annual Mardi Gras Gala at the Grappone Conference Center in Concord.

The Mardi Gras Gala was held Saturday, Feb. 6 and is the biggest fundraiser of the year for Catholic Charities NH, one of the largest nonprofit social service agencies in the state. Approximately 350 people attended, raising more than $100,000 to go toward uplifting the lives of many.

Catholic Charities New Hampshire touches the lives of 1 in 13 people in the state with a multitude of programs. Parish & Community Services supports individuals through their journey at difficult times with programs such as the Basic Financial Fitness program; OUR PLACE provides parenting education; and Immigration & Refugee Services help transition people new to our country.

“The money we raise from Mardi Gras supports programs that allow people to lead more independent lives,” says Lisa Merrill-Burzak, Vice President of Development for Catholic Charities. “We are indebted to our many donors for their gifts that help their neighbors succeed.”