Just before Christmas, Fulcrum surprised school leaders with the announcement that every school in the Archdiocese of Seattle would receive a one-time, unrestricted grant. These grants were inspired by the schools’ collective participation in the Office for Catholic Schools Move Your Feet Initiative, a show of solidarity with Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, and grounded in the call of Luke 12:48: “Much will be required of the person entrusted with much and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more.”
Fulcrum exists to support and strengthen Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Seattle, especially in times of need. Over the past year, many school communities have faced significant challenges, including rising costs, increased need among families, and the ongoing demands of sustaining vibrant school environments. The Move Your Feet grants are Fulcrum’s response—both to these shared challenges and to the extraordinary commitment schools demonstrate each day to provide an accessible, faith-filled, and excellent Catholic education.
Because the grants are unrestricted, schools may direct the funds where they will have the greatest impact—whether supporting staff, assisting families, addressing operational or emergency needs, or strengthening critical programs.
“We know that schools know their communities best,” said Susan Ocoma, Fulcrum Programs Director. “This funding is meant to empower them, to give a little breathing room, and to let them direct resources where they will make the biggest difference.”
These grants were possible thanks to the generosity of Fulcrum’s donors and faithful supporters, whose trust and partnership allow Fulcrum to respond swiftly and meaningfully when schools need it most. Their commitment to Catholic education across Western Washington ensures that every school has the support it needs to remain strong, vibrant, and accessible to families.
As schools continue to walk through a season of both challenge and hope, Fulcrum remains deeply grateful for the collective spirit of solidarity that made these Move Your Feet grants possible. Together, we are living out our shared responsibility to steward what has been entrusted to us—strengthening Catholic schools today and safeguarding their mission for generations to come.