In the framework of enhancing humanitarian relief and assistance efforts, President of the Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Mr. Sean Callahan visited Caritas Jordan on Tuesday, October 22. He was accompanied by a  high-level delegation which included CRS Regional Director Mr. Hani El-Mahdi in addition to employees of CRS office in Jerusalem, namely office representative Mr. Jason Knapp, Operations Manager Mr. Elias Qraitim, ​​ and Head of Programs Ms. Cornelia Sage.

This visit, which was an expression of solidarity and blessing marking the opening of the CRS’ office in Jordan, started with visiting Caritas Jordan’s main office during  which Caritas Jordan Director Wa’el Suleiman and members of staff welcomed the CRS delegation. Then, Mr. Callahan was presented with a detailed report on the current projects and initiatives undertaken by Caritas Jordan in addition to the humanitarian efforts destined to meet the humanitarian needs in Gaza Strip.

The visit also included an inauguration ceremony of the CRS office in Jordan, in the presence of Apostolic Nuncio to Jordan Bishop Giovanni Pietro Dal Toso, MP Haitham Zayadin, and Director of the Catholic Center for Studies and Media Fr. Dr. Rif’at Bader.

During the visit, emphasis was made on the importance of opening the CRS office in its capacity as a strategic step designed to support Caritas’ mission and vision by helping those in need, in addition to promoting sustainable development through the signing of a partnership agreement between CRS and Caritas Jordan.

Later, Mr. Callahan, Apostolic Nuncio Bishop Dal Toso, and Mr. Wa’el Suleima held a meeting with His Royal Highness Prince Rashid Ibn El-Hassan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Hashemite Charity Organization (HCO), where they discussed the CRS’ role as well as the importance of partnership and continuous communication with the HCO, especially with regards to the efforts designed to deliver aid to Gaza Strip.

The visit concluded with a tour of one of the CRS warehouses, where the sorting and dispatching of humanitarian aid was displayed which reflects its deep commitment to relief work and meeting the needs of affected communities.