On Wednesday, August 7, 2024, the St. Joseph Charity Association was officially inaugurated in Beit Sahour, attended by Msgr. William Shomali, Patriarchal General Vicar, Archbishop Atallah Hanna, Head of the Greek Orthodox Church in Jerusalem, Bishop Dr. Munib Younan, and several local priests. What began as a small act of generosity among a few men, who aimed to ensure no one in their town was left in need, has grown into an officially registered charitable organization. The association’s mission is to support low-income Christian families in the Bethlehem governorate, addressing community needs amid current financial and economic crises. It seeks to encourage Palestinian Christian youth to stay in their homeland despite challenges, foster brotherhood among young people, and assist those in need, as Jesus taught.

The initiative dates back 20 years, when a young resident of Beit Sahour proposed aiding cancer patients, forming a group called Youth of the Boat, inspired by Noah's Ark. A decade later, another group was formed to support needy families. During the COVID-19 pandemic, members of both groups created an aid fund to support families, particularly in healthcare, as Bethlehem's economy and tourism were hit hard.

With support from the Roman Catholic Church in Beit Sahour and under the guidance of Fr. Suhail Fakhoury, the parish priest, the voluntary fund gained significant support from local youth and expatriates in the United States, evolving into a joint fund between local and international communities. Partnerships with organizations like The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, the Orthodox Church, the Good Shepherd Society, Caritas Bethlehem, and the Arab Society further expanded its network to better reach those most in need.

As the fund’s activities grew, its members decided to register it as an official charitable organization, overseen by an administrative body dedicated to achieving its goals. The association aims to improve lives through programs providing necessities, education, and healthcare, bringing tangible change to the Christian community of Beit Sahour and the Bethlehem governorate.

In his speech, Msgr. Shomali emphasized the importance of giving in Christian life, quoting Jesus' words from Luke 6:38: "Give, and it will be given to you." He noted that the association ensures the continuation of the Christian presence and meets the needs of the less fortunate, mirroring the early church's way of living.

St. Joseph's Society is not just a charity but a symbol of hope and social solidarity. Through collaborative efforts and a strong humanitarian spirit, it aims to make a significant impact on the community and revive hope during difficult times.