The Mercy House in Jersey City gave away 100 backpacks filled with school supplies to children in need last week, the Archdiocese of Newark announced.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
More than 300 backpacks were handed out in Newark on August 13, while approximately 100 were given away in both Jersey City on August 15th and Elizabeth on August 16th.
“The Mercy House lives out the Catholic Church’s mission to help everyone in need. In this case, we knew families desperately needed items they couldn’t afford for the new school year, so we made sure they got everything and then some,” Mercy House Director Cheryl A. Riley said in a statement.
“Nothing beats putting smiles on children’s faces, and that’s what we did at this giveaway.”
She also credited archdiocesan parishes and a few outside organizations with donating the school supplies.
While picking up classroom essentials, families at the giveaway also received free cups of Italian ice, and several families won prizes raffled at each site. The donated prizes and gifts included dolls, trucks, and water toys.
Founded in 2018, The Mercy House provides nonperishable food, clothing, baby supplies, furniture, and help finding work and housing for anyone in need. Its three locations in Newark, Jersey City, and Elizabeth each serve roughly 300 people weekly.
If you would like to volunteer or donate, contact Cheryl A. Riley at cheryl.riley@rcan.org. For more information, click here.
Blessings each of you for doing positive things and ideas for community. Hopefully people,will remember this moment.. 👋🙏