Written by: John DeRousie, Custom Marketing Solutions
FULTON, NY – A combining force of man and nature has suddenly made Catholic Charities of Oswego County to take action and temporarily vacate its historic headquarters building at 365 W. First St.
The force? A sudden infiltration by a large colony of bats thought to be caused by start of the massive $12-million Broadway Bridge reconstruction project over the Oswego River nearby.
Catholic Charities has moved its operations from its current location, the only remaining former American Woolen Mills building on West First Street in Fulton, to a temporary location in the vacant St. Michael’s Church, at the corner of West Third and Beech streets, just two blocks west, while remedial measures are under way to address the problem.
Catholic Charities has moved its administrative offices and its programs, including the CYO Youth Program, the Food Pantry, the Step-by-Step Wellness Program, and the agency’s Youth and Family related Support Services to the new location.
The Thrift Store has been temporarily closed.
According to Oswego County Catholic Charities board chair Brian Caswell, “We had to take action to protect the health and welfare of our clients, program participants and staff so we moved to a temporary location nearby while we take the necessary remedial action.”
Caswell added that Catholic Charities of Oswego County’s board of directors is “especially appreciative” of Garry Stanard, current owner of the former St. Michael’s church, for being able to accommodate Catholic Charities without delay.
Executive director Mary-Margaret Pezzella-Pekow said that the availability of St. Michael’s Church has made it possible for Catholic Charities to make a seamless transition.
“While it is unfortunate that we have had to temporarily relocate. I’m happy to say that our programs are continuing to meet the needs of those we serve. Our CYO Program is still offering activities for our youth and is open Monday through Friday 3 – 7 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Our food pantry is also accessible and is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:30 – 7 p.m., Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.,” said Pezzella-Pekow.
Catholic Charities of Oswego County serves all people in need regardless of their religious affiliation.
Primary funding sources for Catholic Charities of Oswego County’s programs are the United Way of Greater Oswego County, the Diocesan Hope Appeal, the County of Oswego and private donations by individuals and local companies and organizations.
For more information on Catholic Charities of Oswego County and the many programs that it offers contact them 315-598-3980 or visit www.ccoswego.com
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