Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Diocesan Services Appeal?
The Diocesan Services Appeal (DSA) is the annual fundraising campaign for the five-county Diocese of Palm Beach in which the faithful are asked by our bishop to support our local church. The contribution support stretches beyond the individual parishes and funds the projects run by the diocese. The DSA reminds us that we are all part of the Catholic family and that we need to support not just our individual parishes but our diocese as well.
What programs does the Diocesan Services Appeal support?
The DSA has seven main programs its supports throughout the diocese. It provides extra support to Catholic Charities; Vocations; Seminarians; Diaconate Formation; Catholic Education; Cultural Ministries; Communications; Marriage and Family Life; and Chancery/Support Services. Under these overarching programs there are many forms of support from prison ministry and respect for life to marriage counseling and homeless outreach. All the money donated to the DSA stays within the diocese and supports programs in Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Okeechobee, and Indian River counties.
How can I donate?
There are many ways to donate to the DSA. The easiest way to donate is online right now with a debit or credit card by clicking the Donate Now menu item listed above under Ways to Give or the Donate Now button at the top of each page. If you are a registered parishioner you will receive a letter in the mail from the bishop in January with a return envelope to donate. You may also send a check anytime by clicking the Check/Mail menu item listed above under Ways to Give and follow the instructions. You may also consider donating gifts of stock by contacting the Development Office or give a matching gift by contacting your employer if they provide a matching gift program.
Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes, Every gift donated to the diocese is tax-deductible, and we will send you a tax receipt for any gift of more than $250 or by request.
What is the difference between a pledge and one-time gift?
A one-time gift is exactly that; you give one donation for the whole year. A pledge, on the other hand, is an opportunity to give through installments throughout the year. It is generally a pre-determined amount per month for the 10-month timeframe. Since you are giving over time, it’s an opportunity to increase your gift. When you decide to support the DSA, we ask that you pray and think about how much your finances allow you to give and consider a sacrificial gift to help your diocese.
