At the Catholic Diocese of Madison Foundation (CDMF), one of our funds which makes the most direct impact on the community is the Heart of Mercy Endowment (HOME).

This fund provides assistance to various ministries and programs in the diocese as directed by the bishop, with the purpose of fostering the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy.

HOME has uplifted many local nonprofits and charitable organizations since its inception, from food pantries to women’s crisis centers, homeless shelters, and more.

In 2025, Bishop Donald J. Hying of Madison gave special consideration to applications that demonstrated innovative initiatives and that aligned with the Diocese of Madison’s Into the Deep and Go Make Disciples initiatives.

Overall, more than $43,000 was awarded from HOME in 2025.

Grant recipients

The following organizations were the recipients of HOME grants:

• 6:8, Inc.  
• Stateline Works of Mercy, Inc.
• Badger Prairie Needs Network
• Babies & Beyond of WI
• Porchlight, Inc.  
• Specialty Care Free Clinic
• Blessed Sacrament Parish St. Vincent de Paul Conference
• Queen of Apostles Parish St. Vincent de Paul Conference  
• G.O.D.S. Fund
• St. Vincent de Paul Society, Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish Conference  
• St. Cletus Pastorate SHINE Program
• Riverway Communities of Hope
• Great Turning Catholic Worker  
• St. Dominic Pastorate

Though many applications were received, and not all worthy causes were able to be selected this year, the above organizations were chosen because of the strength of the work they do in the community. Many of them uplift the poor or evangelize to souls in need.

We encourage you to learn more about these organizations and the work they do, and determine if you also feel inspired to support them financially or as a volunteer.

If you are interested in donating to the Heart of Mercy Endowment or in starting an endowment fund of your own, visit diocesemadisonfoundation.org or call 608-821-3048.

Also talk with your parish priest and see if he has considered starting an endowment fund with the CDMF.

We would be happy to help in any way possible as we work together to serve Christ and His Church here in the Diocese of Madison.