The Papal Foundation in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania, has awarded grants totaling $10 million in support of Pope Francis's charitable work around the world, Vatican Radio reports.

The foundation, which has a $215 million endowment, was established in 1988 by United States clergy and laity to support the papacy's charitable priorities. In 2015, the foundation distributed more than $15 million in support of housing, hospitals, education, and pro-life programs. Since 1988, it has awarded more than $121 million.

"We are called by Christ to share this mercy," said Pope Francis, "with those who are spiritually and materially in need through the spiritual and corporal works of mercy."