EAST PROVIDENCE — On the Feast of Saint Nicholas, Dec. 6 — and in the spirit of the generous saint — the Masse family at Paul Masse Chevrolet in East Providence presented Bishop Thomas J. Tobin with a large donation to benefit vital ministries of the Diocese of Providence. The family donated $250,000 to the Catholic Charity Appeal, which through its many ministries, provides social, educational and spiritual support to thousands of Rhode Islanders each year. A gift of $50,000 was given to the Diocesan Assistance Fund which provides charitable support for a number of causes. And a gift of $50,000 was given to the “Keep the Heat On” program which helps families and individuals keep their homes warm throughout the winter.
Bishop Tobin thanked the Masse family for their “exceptional generosity” and helping the poor of Rhode Island, calling their gift an example of “faith in action.”
“This heating assistance program has truly been a ‘life-saver’ for many individuals and families in our region since it was founded 17 years ago, and I know that it will be once again this year.
“I hope that you and your family will have a blessed, peaceful and joyous Christmas Season.”
This is the 18th season of Bishop Tobin’s “Keep the Heat On” program, which continues to offer great hope and comfort to thousands of households during Rhode Island’s harsh winter months.
In an interview with Bob Masse, who serves as the vice president of Paul Masse Chevrolet, he shared that his father Paul spearheaded this gift.
“He has always been a supporter of the diocese and a very faithful person,” said. Masse. “This time of year, he wanted to do something for people who are having a hard time, those struggling to pay the heating bill or to have heat. That’s what drew him to doing this. We wanted to do it as a company as well to pass along our good fortune to those less fortunate.”
The bishop was honored by the family’s invitation to say a prayer and also bless the store last Thursday.
“It was a great day,” said Bob Masse. “We’ve known the bishop a long time. He’s a great man and we enjoyed his company.”
This gift is a strong example of how individuals and businesses are making a difference in the lives of Rhode Islanders in need. And this direct impact has made all the difference to the Masse family.
“That’s the best part,” said Masse. “That it can go to someone and have an impact immediately. That’s what it’s all about. We wanted to get this out there to an organization that’s on the frontlines every day helping these folks. And helping this Christmas season is our biggest motivator. It’s the right thing to do.”
