NEWARK, N.J. – In an extraordinary display of holiday spirit, The Mercy House, operated by the Archdiocese of Newark, achieved a new milestone in its mission of kindness. This year, its Christmas Giveaway event, held for the first time across its expanded locations in Elizabeth, Jersey City, and its original base in Newark, provided joy to a record number of families in need.
Throughout this massive toy distribution event, over 2,000 toys including balls, dolls, and other fun items were handed out to 620 families. The event took place over three days, serving 185 families in Jersey City on December 18, 270 families in Newark on December 19, and 165 families in Elizabeth on December 20. Alongside toys, parents received bags of candy for their children’s stockings, and mothers were gifted large sacks filled with toiletries, offering them a respite from holiday expenses.
Cheryl A. Riley, the director of The Mercy House, emphasized the significance of this event in alleviating the added stress and financial burdens that many parents face during the holidays. “Christmas is a season of giving, and that’s what this event is all about,” Riley remarked, highlighting the aim to provide a Santa-like experience for children. The initiative also included contributions to the Newark Police Department, the Gramon Family of Schools in Fairfield, and the Emmanuel Church of Christ in Newark.
The success of this year’s giveaway was bolstered by generous donations from various archdiocesan parishes, schools, and individuals. Notable contributions came from St. Dominic Academy in Jersey City and St. Joseph Regional High School in Montvale, with students from these schools actively participating in the distribution of toys. Support also poured in from organizations outside the Archdiocese, such as the First Presbyterian Church of Rutherford, which alone donated over 500 gifts.
The Mercy House extends its services year-round, offering food, clothing, baby supplies, furniture, and assistance in employment and housing. For those interested in volunteering or making donations, especially financial contributions, contact can be made to Cheryl A. Riley at cheryl.riley@rcan.org. More information about The Mercy House and its efforts can be found at www.rcan.org/respect-life/mercy-house.