Catholic Charities West Virginia (CCWVa) received a donation in the amount of $89,080 from donor, Edward Klash, which will be used for CCWVa’s Hospitality House in Wheeling.
Edward Klash, a long-time resident of Weirton and dedicated electrician at Weirton Steel Company, has left a remarkable legacy of generosity following his passing. Mr. Klash, an alumnus of St. Paul’s Catholic Grade School and Weir High School, was a devoted member of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, where he served faithfully as an usher. His commitment to his church family was a source of great pride and fulfillment for him.
In his lifetime, Edward Klash was known for his compassionate heart and his dedication to helping the less fortunate. Honoring his deep-seated values, he expressed a wish that, upon his passing, contributions be made to various churches and charitable organizations both locally and nationally. These contributions were intended to support the vital work being done to aid those in need.
Edward Klash appointed his trusted companion, Ruth Anne Foutty, to act as Trustee and ensure his charitable wishes were fulfilled. In accordance with his wishes, Ms. Foutty recently delivered a generous donation of $89,080 to Catholic Charities West Virginia. This significant contribution is a testament to Mr. Klash’s enduring commitment to philanthropy and his desire to make a positive impact on the community.
“He wanted to help other people who were less fortunate than him. He left a great legacy not only for this area and community, but also nationally as well. He was very generous and was a very good man,“ stated Ruth Anne Foutty, Trustee of Edward Klash Estate.
Mr. Klash’s donation will help to benefit women, children, and families who stay in the Catholic Charities West Virginia Hospitality House. The Catholic Charities Hospitality House provides transitional housing for a family for three to six months. The family is able to stay intact and sleep under one roof while receiving intensive case management services to get back on their feet. Furthermore, case managers work with clients on building financial literacy skills, budgeting, finding child care, finding reliable transportation, obtaining meaningful employment, enrolling in children’s services, and continuing or gaining special skills to reach career goals. Lastly, residents of the Hospitality House are welcome to visit the Neighborhood Center next door, where they can receive free hot meals and access the food pantry.
“We’re so grateful to Ruth Anne and to Edward for leaving this legacy. It will help so many people. This support of our Hospitality House will have a profound impact on the vulnerable families we serve through this program, “ stated CCWVa Chief Mission Officer, Katie Klug.
Catholic Charities West Virginia is the largest private provider of social services in West Virginia. Every year the agency provides help to tens of thousands of vulnerable West Virginians. They serve all 55 counties in West Virginia and all people, regardless of faith, family or background. To learn more about CCWVa please visit www.ccwva.org.
