This committee works to create a just society by advocating on behalf of poor and vulnerable people with appropriate government officials. In addition, areas of emphasis include the sanctity of life, non-violence, living wages, health care, affordable housing, and education. The committee helps to administer the Southern Delaware Education Foundation, which provides scholarships to those who lack financial resources to pay their tuition and fees.  Everyone is encouraged to become involved in supporting public policies and community outreach initiatives that provide for the dignity of the human person, solidarity among all peoples, and the dignity of work and care of God’s creation. For information,  please email us at SDEFcares@gmail.com.

Update on Southern Delaware Education Foundation, part of the Salt and Light Committee.

2025 was an excellent year for the Southern DE Education Foundation. It is an offshoot of Salt and Light. They gave 53, 000 in scholarships to 25 students for workforce training certs. They just had thank you luncheon for 35 volunteers and a brainstorming session for ideas for fundraising and improvement.

SDEF’s mission is to educate people out of poverty. We provide scholarships for Workforce Training and Certification to those in need. SDEF covers up to 75% of tuition and the student covers the balance, thereby giving them incentive to stick with the program and get a job once certified. This year alone, we have paid out $52,000 in scholarships helping 23 applicants. These students are in such programs as Licensed Practical Nursing, Commercial Driver’s License, Welding Apprenticeship, Certified Nursing Assistant, and Medical Billing and Coding, to name a few. It is ONLY because of your generosity that we are able to do this.

The Southern Delaware Education Foundation welcomes individuals and organizations wishing to sponsor a student. If you would like to partner with Southern Delaware Education Foundation, or if you would like to just learn more about us, please email us at SDEFcares@gmail.com. We would love to work with you. You may also make a donation by mailing your check to SDEF, PO Box 645, Ocean View, DE 19970 or through our website www.SDEFcares.org.

“When we attend to the needs of those in want, we give them what is theirs, not ours. More than performing works of mercy, we are paying a debt of justice.”

— Pope Saint Gregory the Great