Help Our Kids Give Back


"It was Mercy Home who helped to make my life better and I would really enjoy being able to do that for someone else." -An Aftercare youth

Children come to our door seeking guidance, shelter and the opportunity for a new life. Many stay at our Home for a year or two; leaving with a new sense of self, direction and the desire to give back. This is why I need your help.

Recently, some members of Aftercare have come to me. You see, they feel so blessed to have received so many amazing opportunities. They feel as though it is time for them to give back. They were especially touched with the plight of victims of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in Mobile, Alabama. The storms were a few years ago, yet the devastation in Mobile continues today. They came to me and convinced me to sponsor a trip this month to help Habitat for Humanity rebuild in Mobile.

We created the Aftercare program as a support system for those youth that have left our residential care. It is a way for our Mercy Home family to ensure that our young people go on to lead successful, independent lives. It is also a way for former residents to keep in touch and to inspire youth currently in our care. An Aftercare member wrote, "Aftercare is there for you even when you do not expect them to be there. I can honestly say that Aftercare is a guardian angel."

The trip is this month. In order to travel to Mobile, Aftercare staff and youth will have to drive. And as you know, the cost of gas is so high. But their cause is noble and their enthusiasm is awe-inspiring, how could I say no?

Another youth wrote to me, "I am ready to help, to share and acknowledge the needs of others. I am willing to do my best, to work as hard as I can to help those in need."

I know I can't let my kids down now-not when they are so eager to share of their hearts, their time and their talents. These young men and women have been through so much, and it would mean the world to me to give them this opportunity to do what others have done for them. To truly come full-circle.

Will you help me give my kids a chance to give back? My youth are given a second chance; will you let them do the same for the people of Mobile?

Thank you for all that you do. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Blessings,

Fr. Scott