Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County (CCSCC) conducted a study of 555 households at 3 parish food distribution sites in Santa Clara County to learn more about what economic challenges they are facing in light of the pandemic and subsequent economic crisis.

This study consisted of 25 questions and examined multiple domains of people's lives, including financial security, housing, education, healthcare, childcare and immigration. Over the course of 2 weeks we learned that over 1,000 people expect to become homeless for the first time by the end of 2020 if major financial assistance is not delivered soon.

Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) were disproportionately impacted by the effects of the economic crisis and a high percentage of participants experiencing symptoms of severe depression and anxiety indicate that our mental health system will soon be flooded.

Starting before the distribution, our surveyors approached clients in their cars and administered this anonymous and confidential survey in person. Clients were not required to answer all questions but were encouraged to do so. The vast majority of surveys (97%) were completed in full.

To read the full survey, please visit the Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County website: catholiccharitiesscc.org/parishengagement If you or someone you know is suffering due to the effects of the pandemic, or you’d like to support Catholic Charities and give help, please call (408) 468-0100.