18 May Mother Teresa Women’s Giving Circle Awards More Than $160,000 to Local Nonprofits Serving Bayou Communities
The Mother Teresa Women’s Giving Circle, a ministry of the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana (CFSL), joyfully gathered on Thursday, May 14 for its Annual Presentation of Grant Funds, awarding more than $160,000 in grants to local nonprofits dedicated to serving women, children, and families throughout the Bayou Region.
The evening celebrated the power of women united in faith and generosity, as members of the Giving Circle came together to witness the direct impact of their collective giving. Through the Women’s Giving Circle model, 100% of member contributions are granted directly back into the community each year.
The 2026 grant recipients include:
- CASA of the 16th JDC — $10,000
- Catholic Charities of Houma-Thibodaux, Catholic Community Center — $50,000
- Catholic Charities of Houma-Thibodaux, Individual & Family Assistance — $30,000
- The Haven — $20,000
- Hope Extreme — $10,000
- The Reservoir — $30,000
- Upside Downs — $10,000
“These grants represent more than financial support — they are a reflection of faith in action,” said Amy Ponson, CEO of the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana. “Each organization receiving funding is making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families across our Bayou communities, and we are deeply grateful to our members whose generosity makes this possible.”
In addition to celebrating this year’s grant recipients, the Women’s Giving Circle also announced the establishment of a new Mother Teresa Women’s Giving Circle Endowment, made possible through the generosity of an anonymous donor. The endowed gift was created to help sustain the mission of the Women’s Giving Circle for generations to come while continuing to support women, children, and families throughout the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. “This beautiful act of generosity ensures that the mission of the Women’s Giving Circle will continue long into the future,” Ponson added. “It is a blessing to witness how one person’s faithful stewardship can create lasting impact for our entire community.”
The Mother Teresa Women’s Giving Circle is currently entering its ninth year of grantmaking and has awarded more than $1.1 million to nonprofits serving the Bayou Region since its founding.
The organization also announced that registration is now open for its upcoming annual Women’s Giving Circle Retreat, which will take place on July 14 at Lumen Christi Retreat Center in Schriever. The retreat will offer women a day of spiritual renewal, fellowship, inspiring speakers, and opportunities to grow deeper in faith. Space is limited. Register for the retreat here: https://bit.ly/WGCRetreat26
To learn more about the Mother Teresa Women’s Giving Circle, become a member, support the mission, or register for the retreat, visit: https://bit.ly/cfslwgc
About the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana
The Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana exists to promote philanthropy, empower priests, inspire our community, and ensure long-term financial stability for the charitable, educational, and spiritual ministries of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. Through endowments, planned giving, and charitable funds, CFSL helps individuals and families create lasting Catholic legacies that strengthen the Bayou Region for generations to come.
