The Ladies of the Woman’s Club of Westfield learned at a general meeting held recently about Covenant House and Raphael’s Life House from representatives of both organizations. Marcia Mann, Developing Director of Covenant House told of its founding in 1972 and its dedication to the mission to help homeless kids escape the streets to a safe haven. It is the largest privately funded charity in the Americas today providing care and vital services to homeless, abandoned, abused, trafficked and exploited youth. Since 1993, Covenant House in Elizabeth, has provided food, shelter, immediate crisis care, plus other important services to homeless youth between the ages of 18 and 21.
Edie Coogan co-founder of Raphael’s Life House in Elizabeth told of the transitional residence for young women who are homeless and pregnant. The girls are offered a safe place to rebuild their lives and give their child a positive start in life. All expecting women between the ages of 18 and 20 are welcome, including all races, creeds, national origins and economic status. Classes are offered in prenatal care, parenting education, vocational training along with life skills programs from budgeting to building self esteem.
The members of The Woman’s Club were truly inspired by the wonderful, good work that is being done daily by the staff of workers at Covenant House and Raphael ’s Life House.
The Junior Woman’s Club of Westfield, Inc. is a group of volunteer women between the ages of 18 and 40 who share a common goal: improving our community, our state and the lives of others. To learn more about the Club and its activities visit westfieldnj.com/jwcw or call Jennifer (908) 789-8991.
(above l-r) Lori Rudzich,Raphael’s Life House Volunteer Coordinator, Jean Murphy, Woman’s Club of Westfield Parliamentarian, Edie Coogan,Co-Founder of Raphael’s Life House and Marcia Mann Development Director of Covenant House New Jersey.
