FAQs

Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA) is a papal agency founded in 1926 to support the churches and peoples of the Middle East (Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine and Syria), Northeast Africa (Egypt, Eritrea and Ethiopia), India, and Eastern Europe (Armenia, Georgia and Ukraine). We serve the poor and vulnerable in partnership with the local Eastern Catholic Churches, bringing hope, dignity, and practical assistance to communities in need.

CNEWA is a registered nonprofit organization and an agency of the Holy See. It operates under the guidance of the Vatican and works closely with Eastern Catholic Churches to provide humanitarian aid and pastoral support.

We serve communities in areas experiencing poverty, conflict, or religious persecution in the Middle East — Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine and Syria— Northeast Africa (e.g., Ethiopia, Eritrea), India, and parts of Eastern Europe.

Yes. In the United States, CNEWA is a 501(c)(3) organization, and all donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.

CNEWA ensures that your gift directly supports urgent needs in the regions we serve—whether that’s food aid, education, emergency relief, or pastoral support. We work through trusted local partners to maximize impact and accountability.

Yes. When making a donation, you may indicate a specific region or program you’d like to support. CNEWA will honor your intent wherever possible.

You can donate securely online at cnewa.org, by phone, or by mailing a check to our offices. Monthly giving and legacy gifts are also welcome.

We are committed to transparency and stewardship. Our financial records are independently audited, and we publish annual reports outlining our income, expenses, and program impact. CNEWA consistently receives high ratings from third-party charity evaluators.

Our work includes:
• Emergency relief and humanitarian aid
• Education and scholarships
• Health care and clinics
• Child and elderly care
• Formation of priests, sisters, and lay leaders
• Support for displaced families and refugees

No. While we are a Catholic organization and work through the local churches, our services are provided to all people in need, regardless of religion or background.

While we do not currently offer international volunteer opportunities, you can support our mission by advocating, fundraising, or sharing our stories with your community. Occasionally, we offer virtual engagement or speaking opportunities.

You can subscribe to our free magazine ONE, sign up for email updates, or follow us on social media. We regularly share stories, updates, and impact reports from the field.

Please visit our contact page. You can call us or email