Gifts of Friendship

September 27, 2016

Babacar Niang and his friends weren’t sure where to start.

As devout Muslims, they had long been troubled by news reports of terrorists committing atrocities in the name of Islam. “In the wake of [these terrible things happening] we were like, ‘Ok, we have to be more responsible,’” says Babacar. “We have to portray a good image. Of course, [my friends and I] are all good people, but are we showing it to people? Are we only reserved for ourselves?”

When they searched for a Chicago charity to support, Mercy Home was at the top of the list. They immediately reached out and, with the help of coworker Mario Tamayo, were able to visit our Home and learn more about our mission. Niang and his friends were convinced they had found the right place.

Despite being dispersed throughout the Chicagoland area, the group was determined to help our children. “We just had to do it,” says Niang. After talking to Mario about what our children needed most, the friends pooled their resources and bought a shirt, socks, and a pair of shoes—for every one of our boys and girls.

Buoyed by the success of their service, Niang and his friends hope to support our kids again in the future. Niang was also pleased to learn that other friends in his community, after learning about the group’s outreach, were inspired and wanted to become involved.

“Whatever we need to do [to help the kids], we will do it,” says Niang. “[Serving others is] something that is the main core, the main teaching of Islam—and how we were brought up.”

Fr. Scott was especially grateful for the group’s offerings of support and friendship. “I am deeply touched by the gifts given by Babacar and his friends for the children of Mercy,” he said. “We are truly better people when we see the goodness in others rather than our differences. Their support truly means the world to our children, and to me.”