December

We have been quite active at the Passaic Neighborhood Center for Women during the month of December -- so active, in fact, that we have neglected posting here!  Please accept our apologies for our absence and for this rather long post.  We hope you enjoy reading about our December "happenings."

On December 1, our friend Rosa was here again to conduct a Christsmas-themed arts and crafts workshop for the women.  Here are some photos:

During the first week of December, we also took delivery of the first four of our new computers, purchased with donations and grants that we told you about previously.  (See this post -- and this one.)  Our current English learners are thrilled to be using the new computers and accessories.  And, we have already added new learners to our Rosetta Stone program.  We are overjoyed to be free of the many hours of troubleshooting that our old computers required.  "Stay tuned" to this blog during the new year for photos of our women enjoying the new computers.  We are grateful to our generous benefactors.

While continuing to honor Advent (with Sister Ann Marie's program at St Anthony of Padua, Passaic),  we moved forward toward Christmas with a luncheon that was planned, prepared and served by our women on December 19.  At the luncheon, we were able to share so many gifts with our women!  The staff of the Paterson Diocesan Center continued its "Giving Tree" tradition by providing us with thousands of dollars of grocery gift cards.  The parishioners of the Church of Christ the King in New Vernon added grocery and other gift cards in addition to diapers, wipes and formula.  The St. Vincent dePaul Society at Nativity of Our Lord Parish, in Monroe Township provided an abundance of toys and children's clothing.  Other benefactors -- both individuals and religious communities --  gave generous Christmas donations. Again, we are grateful!

Sister Ann Marie provides the Advent reflection for the English-speaking
community at St. Anthony Parish, Passaic.

Some of the toys donated by our friends at Nativity of Our Lord Parish.

Christmas shopping at the Center

Sister Margaret watches a young one while his mother enjoys the party.

Some of our faithful volunteers and our women enjoy the food and fellowship.

Finally, we want to wish you a very merry Christmas!  Hopefully, you realize how much we need and appreciate your help in this ministry.  Quite literally, we cannot do it without you!  Thank you and God bless you!