By: Richard L. Smith
In an inspiring display of compassion and community spirit, the students of the Academy of the Holy Angels, led by Project Period Co-Presidents Katherine Langan and Sarah David, recently organized a heartwarming drive to support the women at Mercy House.
This humanitarian effort saw the school community unite in a mission to provide essential supplies and kindness to those in need.
The initiative, spearheaded by dedicated students, garnered support from all corners of the school. Students, teachers, and staff came together to collect feminine hygiene products, toothbrushes, toothpaste, body wash, moisturizers, and more.
The outpouring of generosity was a testament to the school's commitment to making a positive impact in the community.
Project Period's Co-Presidents Katherine Langan and Sarah David, along with Treasurer Emily Kim and Secretary Sofia Henry, played pivotal roles in organizing the drive.
Their dedication and determination were matched by the unwavering support of Campus Ministers Nick Fallivene and Maryanne Miloscia, who helped facilitate the collaboration between the Academy of the Holy Angels and Mercy House.
The choice to partner with Mercy House was a heartfelt one, suggested by Mr. Fallivene, who had a personal connection to the organization.
Katherine Langan shared, "We chose to partner with Mercy House upon the suggestion of Mr. Fallivene. I approached Campus Ministry earlier this year with the aim of providing toiletries to a local women's shelter, and Fallivene had a connection to Mercy House."
The significance of this initiative lies in its direct impact on women facing period poverty, a pervasive issue that affects millions.
Langan emphasized her personal connection to this cause, saying, "As a woman, I feel connected to this issue and understand the financial burden that can be caused by having to purchase menstrual products."
Her commitment to addressing this issue has been steadfast for several years.
The school community's response was nothing short of heartwarming. The contributions gathered during the drive will result in at least 60 bags filled with essential items, including maxi pads and other sanitary products, for the women at Mercy House.
The collective effort aimed not only to alleviate financial burdens but also to make the recipients feel more comfortable and supported.
By packaging the items in reusable bags, Project Period hopes to provide a sense of dignity and ease to the women they are assisting.
Langan expressed her wish that these toiletry kits convey a message of support and solidarity to the women at Mercy House.
Mercy House, as described on rcan.org/mercy-house, embodies a mission to provide a welcoming space for individuals and families in need while offering emotional support and healing in a comfortable, faith-filled environment.
It operates as a ministry of the Archdiocese of Newark.
The Academy of the Holy Angels' Project Period volunteers have delivered essential supplies as well as an abundance of compassion and hope to those they serve.
Their dedication to addressing the needs of the community stands as a shining example of the positive impact that can be achieved through collective kindness and empathy.