Graz, Austria – Caritas Steiermark launched its 75th annual fundraising campaign on Thursday, February 26, 2026, with a call for increased support as rising costs of living strain vulnerable populations. The campaign, which officially begins March 1, aims to provide a safety net for those struggling with poverty in the region.
Caritas Director Nora Tödtling-Musenbichler and Bishop Wilhelm Krautwaschl of the Diocese of Graz-Seckau personally appealed for donations in Graz’s Herrengasse, marking the start of the door-to-door effort that will continue through the end of May. The initiative comes at a time of growing economic hardship for many in Steiermark.
“Because Life is More Expensive Than Ever”
This year’s campaign is centered around the motto “Weil das Leben teuer ist wie nie. Wir helfen,” which translates to “Because life is more expensive than ever. We help.” Tödtling-Musenbichler emphasized the paradox of modern prosperity alongside persistent inequality. “We live now in prosperity. We live in a country that has peace, a country that offers security. And at the same time, we realize that this security also has cracks, that this ‘You can do it together’ also has gaps,” she said.
She further explained that many individuals and families are struggling to afford basic necessities. “That people can’t manage, that they don’t have enough to pay their rent, to pay their electricity, to be able to afford food. And especially if there are further cuts in the social sector now, especially in social benefits, in social assistance here in Styria, then it will hit people who were particularly affected by poverty before,” Tödtling-Musenbichler added. The campaign’s timing reflects concerns about potential reductions in social services.
One in Eight Residents Face Poverty
According to Caritas Steiermark, approximately one in eight people in the region – over 150,000 individuals – are at risk of poverty. Last year’s fundraising efforts generated around 610,000 euros for Caritas projects, supporting vital services such as emergency shelters and the Marienstüberl. Ten percent of the funds raised remain within local parishes.
Bishop Krautwaschl highlighted the importance of personal connection in the fundraising process. “I believe that when I am on the road and knock on doors, it shows that I am interested in you. And this interest that people demonstrate in each other is very important for our society. If you are interested in each other, you can’t help but be there for others,” he said. The campaign relies on the dedication of over 2,000 volunteers.
A Tradition Dating Back to 1951
The Caritas Haussammlung has a long history, originating in 1951 in response to widespread hardship in post-war Steiermark. What began as a response to immediate needs has evolved into the largest fundraising campaign in the region.
Over the decades, the campaign has adapted to changing circumstances, expanding beyond material assistance to include counseling and support services. In recent years, there has been a greater emphasis on professionalizing the fundraising process, including the use of digital donation platforms and targeted marketing campaigns. The continued relevance of the campaign underscores the ongoing need for social support.
The fundraising drive will continue through the end of May.
