On Saturday, Pope Leo XIV addressed some of the wealthiest U.S. Catholics, urging them to continue their support for charitable works under his papacy. This audience highlighted the impact of his election as the first U.S.-born pope, which has revitalized engagement among American Catholics, particularly in terms of their financial contributions. The meeting took place in the Apostolic Palace and was attended by members of The Papal Foundation, a significant supporter of papal development projects aimed at assisting communities in the developing world.

During his remarks, Leo expressed gratitude to the foundation stewards for their generosity, noting that their contributions have enabled "countless people to experience in a concrete manner the goodness and kindness of God in their own communities." He specifically recognized the opportunity provided to priests and nuns from impoverished countries, who can now pursue advanced studies in Rome’s pontifical universities thanks to scholarships funded by the foundation's grants, which have totalled more than $270 million over the past forty years.

While contributions to The Papal Foundation remained robust throughout Pope Francis’ 12-year pontificate, other forms of donations to the Holy See experienced significant declines during financial downturns such as the global financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, some U.S. Catholics became hesitant to donate due to ongoing reports of mismanagement, corruption, and scandals, in tandem with Pope Francis’ critiques of American-style capitalism.

The election of Pope Leo XIV appears to have rejuvenated the U.S. Catholic Church, particularly among its donor class. The Papal Foundation recently announced that its members approved over $15 million in grants for 2026, marking a historic first in the foundation's 38-year existence. The foundation also reported the inclusion of 25 new families as members since Leo's election, indicating a positive trend in fundraising linked to the election of an American, English-speaking pope, who has a background in mathematics and a focus on the Vatican's financial health.

David Savage, the executive director of the foundation, expressed enthusiasm about the growth in contributions, stating, "The growth we’re seeing is incredibly encouraging, as it reflects a shared commitment to serve, to give, and to bring the church's mission to life in meaningful ways across the globe."

Founded in 1988 by the late Cardinal John Krol of Philadelphia, The Papal Foundation provides a venue for affluent U.S. Catholics to support the pope's charitable initiatives directly. Members, known as stewards, are required to make a minimum gift of $1 million to a fund designated for supporting papal projects, including initiatives like building orphanages and monasteries. Among the approved projects for 2026 are the construction of a safe school for marginalized tribal children in India and technical training programs for vulnerable women in the Philippines.

All U.S. cardinals are currently members of the foundation, which is overseen by a board of trustees comprising both Catholic laity and bishops.