For 80 years, the presence of Jesus has guided the mission and work of Catholic Charities NH. That legacy made The Power of Presence a fitting theme for this year’s Annual Gathering, held September 25 at the Derryfield Country Club in Manchester.

The evening celebrated the impact Catholic Charities NH has had over the past year, echoing the theme of the 2025 Annual Report. At its heart, The Power of Presence reflects the call to walk alongside New Hampshire residents through life’s challenges, grounded in compassion, dignity, and our shared humanity.

The evening began with the annual address from Tom Blonski, president and CEO of Catholic Charities NH. He described presence not only as a guiding theme but as a lived reality, sharing personal stories and reminding attendees that “being present allows us to stop and see the sacred moments of the work of God all around us.” He also highlighted how staff and volunteers embody this presence every day – bringing dignity, compassion, and hope to those most in need.

“Collectively, we feel tremendously honored and blessed to serve the struggling and despairing among us, animating the call of the gospel by embodying love and compassion,” Blonski shared. “Just as Jesus showed up for the marginalized and suffering, our caregivers demonstrate empathy and support. Being present allows us to stop and see the sacred moments of the work of God all around us; it fosters trust, community and healing, aligns with the call to serve others selflessly and reminds us of our shared humanity.”

A Year of Changing Lives

Blonski also highlighted the many accomplishments from Catholic Charities NH programs over the past year, as they continue to respond to the growing demand and needs of the community:

• 9,500+ household members received case management and financial support through Community Services – a 44% increase from last year.
• Immigration Legal Services assisted 17% more individuals than the prior year.
• Through the CareGivers program, volunteers drove nearly 17,000 miles to bring seniors to critical medical appointments and errands, while also delivering 123,000 pounds of food to clients, most of whom face food insecurity and isolation.
• Monadnock at Home supported 104 seniors in the region, helping them remain independent and connected.
• Liberty House provided food, clothing, and essential support to 317 community veterans, while 11 transitional housing residents successfully moved into stable housing.
• New Generation offered 7,127 nights of safe shelter for mothers and children. Impressively, 88% of families in its stabilization program retained housing after one year, and the program received the state’s first-ever “Top Gun” Award for excellence.
• Mental Health Counseling Services provided more than 2,064 hours of care, including $258,000 in charitable counseling services.
• The New Hampshire Food Bank distributed 17.2 million pounds of food to 422 partner pantries and programs statewide.
• Warde Senior Living and St. Ann Rehabilitation & Nursing Center earned national recognition from U.S. News & World Report as two of the nation’s Best Nursing Homes for short-term rehabilitation.
• Phase 1 of Vose Farm Residences, a new affordable workforce housing project in Peterborough, is nearly complete and will soon bring 64 units to market.

Catholic Charities USA CEO Shares Her Vision

The evening also featured remarks from Kerry Alys Robinson, president and CEO of Catholic Charities USA. Robinson shared her enthusiasm for the work being done across the Catholic Charities network and introduced the People of Hope mobile museum, a two-year traveling exhibit featuring powerful client stories from agencies nationwide, including one from New Hampshire. She emphasized how these stories highlight the deeply personal nature of Catholic Charities’ mission and the hope it brings to individuals and families.

She concluded by expressing gratitude to CCNH staff, volunteers, and supporters: “Thank you for your ministry of presence, your power of presence – for being people of hope, for being the reason for my hope, and the reason for the hope of so many,” she shared.

Guardian Angel Award: Paul St. Amand

Long-time Catholic Charities NH supporter Paul St. Amand was honored with the annual Guardian Angel Award, which recognizes a community member for their dedication and commitment to the mission of Catholic Charities NH. St. Amand has been a staunch supporter of Catholic Charities, from our Mardi Gras Gala to regularly delivering winter coats on behalf of the Knights of Columbus Bishop Peterson Council 4442 in Salem.

“Paul lives his faith with conviction,” said Blonski. “His generosity and humility remind us that true service isn’t about recognition but about lifting others up. He is a quiet hero whose impact is felt across our programs and in the lives of countless people we serve.”

In His Footsteps: Jill Foote-Gilbert

Jill Foote-Gilbert, Administrative Assistant at St. Vincent Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Berlin, received the In His Footsteps Award, which honors a Catholic Charities NH employee who goes above and beyond in living out the organization’s core values: collaboration, honor, optimism, integrity, compassion, excellence, and service.

For the past 18 years, Jill has been the welcoming face for residents and families at St. Vincent. Colleagues describe her as a source of positivity and constant support: “Jill’s positive attitude and willingness to assist with any task, and her constant support for staff, is admirable. She meets every day with a smile. Her interaction with residents is loving, patient, and always respectful. She takes the time to listen and assist residents, families, and staff at a moment’s notice.”

Another colleague added: “She approaches each day with a genuine smile and a laugh that is truly infectious, setting the tone for a warm and welcoming environment for both staff and residents. Her contributions are woven into the daily fabric of St. Vincent, and we are all better because of it.”

Board Recognition

Catholic Charities NH also recognized outgoing Board of Trustees member Patrick Ford Jr. for his six years of dedicated service. As Board Treasurer and a member of our Finance and Program Evaluation Committees, he offered invaluable guidance rooted in both professional expertise and a deep personal commitment to the mission.

“Patrick has been a thoughtful and steady presence on our board,” said Blonski. His insights, integrity, and strategic vision have made Catholic Charities stronger, healthier, and better prepared to serve our mission for years to come. We are truly grateful for his stewardship.”