By Lisa Fisher (founder) and Kathy Johnson (board member)
"I encourage all the faithful to join me in supporting inclusive Catholic education through organizations such as The Matthew 19:14 Project," Bishop Edward Weisenburger stated at a meeting with two board members of the Matthew 19:14 Project (TMP) recently. TMP shared their latest Stewardship Report with the Bishop. TMP is a 501c3 non-profit whose mission is to support and provide the necessary resources to Catholic schools in Arizona that serve students with special needs. TMP Founder, Dr. Lisa Fischer, and board members believe a Catholic education should be accessible to all students. After their meeting, Bishop Weisenburger offered his sincere gratitude to TMP through a wonderful letter of support.
The most recent outreach from TMP within the Diocese of Tucson, was a donation exceeding $7,000 across 11 Catholic school grant recipients. Catholic school teachers requested specialized training or resources specific to meet the needs of their students with special needs including, but not limited to, learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, and autism.
Amanda Klos, a teacher from St. Cyril of Alexandria Catholic School remarked, "This was an incredible opportunity that I am so appreciative to receive." St. Cyril received five total awards for their school. Mary Lynne Heath, a teacher from St. Anthony of Padua Catholic School in Casa Grande shared, "I am beyond grateful to be able to supply my students with tools that will enhance their education." Likewise, Carrie Cormier from St. Anthony of Padua also indicated, "I am so excited to get started on this project for my students." Other Tucson Catholic schools that received grant money from TMP included Immaculate Heart and St. John the Evangelist.
The latest opportunity for the public to support TMP is through a raffle with three amazing prizes available. Proceeds go directly back to Catholic schools in Arizona for specialized training for Catholic school teachers to best support students with disabilities. Tickets can be purchased for $20 each or 6 tickets for $100 with winners being drawn on January 10, 2025. Visit TMP’s website at https://matthew1914project.org/ to learn more about the raffle prizes and purchase tickets; learn more about TMP and its positive impact on Arizona Catholic schools over the past 11 years, or to make a donation. With your help our Catholic schools in Arizona can continue to support ALL students!