Caritas Pakistan Distributes Relief Aid to 100 Families in Depalpur

Through its diocesan office, Caritas Pakistan distributed food bags to 100 Christian families at Depalpur, in the diocese of Faisalabad, on May 3, 2026.

Led by Bishop Dr. Indrias Rehmat, the event took place at St. John's Catholic Church, Chak # 6, (village), a rural settlement in the Depalpur Tehsil of the Okara District. The area is known for its extensive agricultural landscape and is one of the oldest inhabited regions in Pakistan.

Bishop Indrias Rehmat stated that the distribution aligns with the "Year of the Poor." He noted the Church's role in assisting those affected by rains, poverty, and difficult living conditions.

Regarding the social role of the Church, Bishop Rehmat emphasized that the mission extends beyond spiritual guidance to include the physical and social well-being of the community. "The Church acts as a safety net for the marginalized, ensuring that basic human needs are met during times of economic instability," he said.

Fr. Yousaf George, the Parish Priest, emphasized the importance of organized charity. "Our goal is to ensure that no family feels forgotten. By bringing these resources directly to the village level, we fulfill our mandate of service and accompaniment," he observed.

Fr. Jameel Inayat, coordinator of charity works in the region, expressed his gratitude for the initiative and encouraged the families present. He appreciated the diocesan office for its response to the needs of the local community.

"It is heartening to see the Church’s compassion in action here in our parish," Fr. Inayat remarked. He urged the parishioners to remain hopeful and to support one another, adding that the presence of the Bishop and the Caritas team brought a sense of solidarity to the people of Chak 6.

Aneel Mushtaq from Caritas Faisalabad noted that the families were selected based on a needs assessment to ensure that the most vulnerable households received support.

"Our team is committed to reaching the peripheries where the need is greatest," Mushtaq said. He further explained that this distribution is part of a systematic approach to disaster risk reduction and community resilience.

"We are not just providing food; we are standing with you to ensure that every household has the strength to face these challenging times. Seeing the hope in your eyes today reminds us why our mission of service is so vital," he added.

Many families, struggling under the weight of rising costs and seasonal hardships, found more than just physical nourishment in the distribution.

Shahbana Faqeer, one of the beneficiaries, shared her appreciation for the support provided. "This assistance comes at a time of great need for my family. We often feel invisible in our struggles, but today we feel seen and loved,” she said.

Additionally, the Bishop highlighted the importance of community resilience, urging local leaders to identify sustainable ways to improve food security. He announced plans to extend aid to families across all parishes in the Diocese of Faisalabad and called for increased collaboration between diocesan departments to address long-term poverty.