Mercy House Sets Record with 650 Turkey Giveaway, Spreading Thanksgiving Cheer to Hundreds
The Archdiocese of Newark’s Mercy House brightened the Thanksgiving season for hundreds of families in need, distributing a record-breaking 650 free turkeys during its annual Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway across its Newark, Elizabeth, and Jersey City locations from Nov. 19-21.
This year’s total surpassed the 2023 milestone of 540 turkeys, reflecting the growing impact of this vital and cherished initiative. At each location, families received turkeys as well as bags brimming with holiday essentials like stuffing, cranberry sauce, and mashed potatoes — ensuring a complete Thanksgiving feast for those who might otherwise go without.
“Love and family are hallmarks of the Catholic Church, so it’s only fitting that The Mercy House helps our clients celebrate a holiday that honors both,” said Cheryl A. Riley, director of The Mercy House. “This year, we were able to bring joy to more people than ever thanks to the generosity of our donors and the dedication of our staff and volunteers.”
The three-day event saw approximately 250 turkeys distributed in Newark, 200 in Elizabeth, and 200 in Jersey City. Volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure each family left equipped to enjoy a warm and festive meal.
With the conclusion of the Thanksgiving Giveaway, Mercy House is now focused on its annual Christmas Gift Giveaway. Scheduled for Dec. 17 in Newark, Dec. 18 in Elizabeth, and Dec. 23 in Jersey City, the event will provide toys, clothing, and other gifts to children from infancy to age 17.
Staff are seeking donations of new, unwrapped toys, clothing, gift cards, and wrapping paper to make the Christmas season magical for families in need. Those who wish to contribute can contact Annette Miller, associate director of The Mercy House, at 201-687-8139 or via email at annette.miller@rcan.org.
Since its founding in 2018, The Mercy House has been a beacon of hope for individuals and families facing hardship. Offering nonperishable food, clothing, baby supplies, furniture, and assistance with employment and housing, its three locations in Newark, Jersey City, and Elizabeth collectively serve about 300 people weekly.
For more information on The Mercy House and its programs, contact Cheryl A. Riley at cheryl.riley@rcan.org or visit www.rcan.org/mercy-house.
Featured Image: Mercy House Associate Director Pete Hernandez hands a turkey to a community member during The Mercy House’s annual Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway in Newark on Nov. 19, 2024. (Photo by Archdiocese of Newark/Sean Quinn)
