Jersey City’s Mercy House gave away about 250 Easter gift bags for families in need on Monday, distributing approximately 1,000 overall when combined with their locations in Newark and Elizabeth.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
Visitors also received packages of small toys and plastic eggs filled with more sweets. Additionally, 16 raffle winners received bundles containing everything needed for an Easter meal, including ham, potatoes, and chocolate cake.
Beyond its three locations, The Mercy House sent another 200 gift bags to Emmanuel Church of Christ’s preschool and St. Patrick’s Pro-Cathedral in Newark.
“Jesus called us to help those in need, and that’s exactly what we’re doing at The Mercy House,” Mercy House Director Cheryl A. Riley said in a statement.
“We’re making sure that children from families who can’t afford gifts can share the joy of what the Easter Bunny brought them, just like any other child. Every child deserves a happy Easter.”
The Easter giveaway was made possible through the generosity of St. Elizabeth University and nine archdiocesan parishes and Catholic schools, which contributed between 50 and 100 items each.
The Mercy House provides nonperishable food, clothing, baby supplies, furniture, and help finding work and housing to anyone in need.
If you would like to volunteer or make a donation — financial contributions are especially appreciated — contact Cheryl A. Riley at cheryl.riley@rcan.org.
For more information, click here.
