Holiday Helpers Assist the Community

By Jackie Jankowski, Confirmation student

This holiday season members of both the first and second year confirmation programs at St. Mary’s of Shrewsbury were asked to give the gift of time to those in need. The students volunteered at places such as the Refugee Apostolate and the Mustard Seed.

The Refugee Apostolate is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to provide a place where people who need this kind of help can “get a lot for a little.” Founded by Walter and Kathy Doyle, the shop works in a unique way. People can come in and find what they need, then donate what they can afford. Mr. Doyle recalled that a woman received a pound of clothes for only an egg. Items that are stocked are all donations from the people in the community who are able to contribute. Every year the Apostolate has a Christmas gift giveaway. In order to help prepare for this event the Confirmation students went to sort out toys and presents that were donated for the children. “It was a very rewarding experience because we were able to help families less fortunate than us,” said Katie Luby, a second year student.

The Mustard Seed is a local soup kitchen and homeless shelter in Worcester which is run by Donna DiMarzio. Each year they hold a kid's-only Christmas party. During this occasion, children from the area can come in and sit on Santa’s lap, then pick a toy or two to keep for themselves. All toys were donations from throughout the year and ranged from a Barbie Doll to a set of K’nex. The kids were kept busy while waiting to see Santa by the many volunteers from both St. Mary’s Parish of Shrewsbury and St. Luke’s of Westboro. The Confirmation students provided face painting, coloring, and game playing. The students found the event to be not only fulfilling, but fun as well.

The teens were happy to help out this holiday season and agreed that they wouldn't mind donating their time again next year.