Mercy House treats moms in need with 1,000+ appreciation gifts
The Mercy House, a resource and referral center operated by the Archdiocese of Newark, made this Mother’s Day extra special for about 450 moms in need. From May 8-10, it distributed over 1,000 gift bags in their largest-ever Mother’s Day Giveaway.
Each Mercy House location in Elizabeth, Jersey City, and Newark gave about 100 moms approximately 300 bags filled with costume jewelry, cosmetics, toiletries, and chocolates. Additionally, 140 gift bags were sent to mothers of students at Emmanuel Church of Christ’s preschool in Newark. The Mercy House’s supporters generously donated all the treats.
But the event was not just about the gifts. By treating these moms with so many goodies, The Mercy House aimed to show appreciation for the sacrifices they make for their children.
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“The mothers we assist at The Mercy House prioritize their children’s needs over their own,” explained Cheryl A. Riley, director of The Mercy House. “Through this giveaway, we want to acknowledge their selflessness and uplift their spirits by providing gifts just for them. Moms should be celebrated every day, but especially on Mother’s Day. That’s part of our mission.”
In addition to its giveaway, The Mercy House will host a special Mother’s Day meal for the 30 residents at its Jersey City location, the only one that serves as a boarding house. These women will also receive complimentary blankets supplied by the Infinity Institute of Jersey City.
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 every week. 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, visit www.rcan.org/respect-life/mercy-house.
Featured image: Mercy House volunteer Marion Caggiano presents a gift bag at The Mercy House’s largest-ever Mother’s Day Giveaway in Jersey City on May 9, 2024. (Photo by Archdiocese of Newark/Sean Quinn)
