Dear Friends at St. Philip, We are overwhelmed with gratitude at the contributions to Brayden's therapy dog from the parish and the CCE children. We are forever grateful for your kindness and generosity! It's wonderful to see people come together to help Brayden! This is a true testament to the beauty and grace of our Lord! Brayden is such a beautiful, sweet child and living with autism, leaves him with many life challenges. Unable to communicate, often we are left wondering what Brayden is thinking or wondering at any given moment. It's heart breaking seeing your child in discomfort and not being able to help him. Since the age of two, Brayden has been in some form of therapy 5 days a week. Our lives are devoted to providing for and bettering his way of life. We are confident that the use of an autism therapy service dog will help Brayden function more smoothly as he goes through life. Our plan is to share with you in the months ahead, articles explaining more of Brayden’s therapy and journey. We now wait to see doors open for Brayden! God Bless. Sincerely in Christ, Brayden’s FamilyA Message from Fr. Barker Nov. 30, 2022
UPDATE ON OUR “BRAYDEN” FUNDRAISER
Dear Parishioners, I wish to thank you for contributing to our parish’s “Brayden” charitable
fundraiser held in October. Brayden’s family has been a part of St. Philip for years. You will
recall that Brayden is in elementary school and has a very complex and demanding form of
autism. His parents have worked hard to get him enrolled in a nationally known service dog
program called “4Paws” centered in Ohio with the objective of receiving his own specially
trained dog (for round-the-clock companionship, support, comfort and safety etc.) This has been
a very big challenge for them.
Total St. Philip contributions as of Nov 25 2022 are $8,374.77. On Nov 15 I remitted a check to
“4Paws” for $4,572 which allowed the family to finally reach their mandatory upfront assessment
of $17,000. Now Brayden is officially enrolled! The 1 - 2 years process begins which will
culminate in him receiving his service dog. With the assistance of the Archdiocese of Galveston-
Houston, I created a dedicated savings account in Brayden’s name for the remaining donation
balance of $3,802.77. The family wishes these funds to be applied to travel, lodging and meals
associated with the “4Paws” program which they must pay. No doubt there will be additional
expenses. If you would like to contribute, please make your check payable to St. Philip the
Apostle Catholic Church. On the “memo line” please write “Brayden Autism Fundraiser”. Your
gift will be deposited into the savings account dedicated to Brayden. Our goal is to be totally
transparent and keep you informed along the way. Sincerely, Father Richard Barker.
Dear Friends at St. Philip,