Knights Emphasize Core Values as Pandemic Answer

‘Leave No Neighbor Behind’ effort based on the Knights of Columbus’ founding principle of charity

As communities around the world are confronting the COVID-19 pandemic, the Knights of Columbus is asking its vast volunteer network of members to help ensure that essential needs are met in communities from coast to coast.

For some individuals, buying essentials or leaving their homes to do so has become challenging. In addition, blood banks are in desperate need of donations. In response Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson has urged Knights of Columbus across the country to donate blood and to come to the aid of their neighbors in communities nationwide as part of its new “Leave No Neighbor Behind” initiative.

“During times of need from the 19th century to the present, the Knights of Columbus has been there in communities around the country to support one another, the Church and the evolving needs of their communities,” said Supreme Knight Carl Anderson. “From world wars, to influenza pandemics more than a century ago, to hurricanes and earthquakes, the Knights of Columbus has helped make the difference for many individuals and communities, and we will do so again during the present situation.”

The Knights’ approximately 2 million members are organized into more than 15,000 local councils based in cities and towns throughout the countries the Order is present in, and they have a long history of community outreach through innovative charitable programs nationally and at the grassroots level. The Knights also pioneered the first national blood drive in the United States in the 1930s.

Knights of Columbus are encouraged to assist:

•  one another, especially the elderly and those living alone.
•  their fellow parishioners and their pastors during a time when many churches are closed.
•  their neighbors, who have particular needs at this time.
•  the hungry, by donating to and volunteering at local food pantries and food banks.
•  with blood donations, especially in response to current shortages.

The organization is also providing spiritual resources to its members and has urged them to offer prayers composed by Pope Francis and the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops during this period. In addition, the Knights are supporting Catholic dioceses in the United States with $100 million in low-interest financing to help them weather the economic impact of this period.