ROCKFORD—The theme of the 31st annual Caritas luncheon on April 26 — “Laughter ... the sound of children” — was illustrated by a small group of enthusiastic singers from the St. Elizabeth Catholic

Community Center preschool who opened the program.

The event is sponsored by the Catholic Charities Auxiliary to raise funds for projects that benefit youths at St. Elizabeth Center.

Patrick Winn, director of Catholic Charities, outlined the many ways the auxiliary has assisted — with carpeting, a small bus, computers and the most recent project of a playground.

Proceeds from this year will update the St. Elizabeth youth building kitchen, which serves some 37,800 meals to youngsters annually.

Bishop David Malloy expressed his “deep thank you” to the Caritas volunteers as well as those attending.

Such gatherings, including in parishes, where people can “rub shoulders” with others “for a reason like this” is, he said, “very, very good (and) I’m very, very grateful” for all of the prayers and work that benefit St. Elizabeth Center and Catholic Charities.

Comedian and author Sally Edwards also entertained the crowd and the event also featured a silent auction and raffles.