If you are having trouble viewing this message, go here: [link removed]

July 17, 2026


 

Overview: This week, House Republicans sought to advance a reconciliation package totaling $95 billion for continuing to fund the war in Iran, to enact voting requirements, and to provide support for farmers.

Farm Bill: In a letter to leadership of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, CCUSA joined the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and other Catholic organizations in urging action on a Farm Bill that reflects its shared commitment to alleviate hunger. The legislation should advance nutrition, rural development, and conservation policies that are practical, compassionate, and responsive to current challenges. Read the letter ([link removed]).

Rules for federal financial assistance: CCUSA responded to an Office of Management and Budget Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, "Regulation for Federal Financial Assistance," expressing concern that, if implemented as written, the proposed rule could significantly increase the burden of administering federal grants, potentially impacting the ability of Catholic Charities agencies to engage in long-term planning, maintain workforce stability, and ensure continuity of services. Read CCUSA's response ([link removed]).

Economy: In the week ending July 11, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims ([link removed]) was 208,000, a decrease of 8,000 from the previous week's revised level. The previous week's level was revised up by 1,000 from 215,000 to 216,000. The 4-week moving average was 214,250, a decrease of 4,750 from the previous week's revised average. The previous week's average was revised up by 250 from 218,750 to 219,000.

 

God's generosity towards us is not naïve but wise. He sees within us the potential of a good that, at times, we ourselves might fail to recognize. For this reason, the Lord, who knows the soil of our hearts better than we, never ceases to believe in us -- in who we are and in who we can become, day by day, if we entrust ourselves to him in faith. Pope Leo XIV, Angelus ([link removed]), Castel Gandolfo, 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time, 12 July 2026

 

Q. Pope Leo XIV is spending his summer holiday at Castel Gandolfo, just outside Rome. Who was the first pope to use the property as a summer retreat?

Please send your answers to share CCUSA's Washington Weekly ([link removed]) with your friends, family and networks so that we can build a movement of solidarity for those most in need.

Text "CCUSA" to 855-564-3197 to receive our action alerts. You can also access advocacy opportunities through our Action Center ([link removed]).

Stay connected with our work: Follow us on X @EndPoverty ([link removed]).

If you would like to help further Catholic Charities' commitment to alleviating, reducing, and preventing poverty, you can contribute here ([link removed]).

([link removed])

Forward to a Friend:
[link removed]
Unsubscribe:
[link removed]

Email Privacy Policy:
[link removed]

Update Profile:
[link removed]

2050 Ballenger Avenue, Suite 400, Alexandria VA 22314