CHARLOTTE — For the past 27 years, MiraVia – a Catholic, non-profit charity which helps abortion-vulnerable women choose life and build independent, healthy lives for themselves and their children – has called Weona Avenue in Charlotte “home.”
The Outreach Center has been a safe haven and source of hope for more than 9,200 women and their children since it opened its door in 1994, but with the growing demand for services, MiraVia is now in need of a larger facility and is raising money to accomplish that goal.
The Outreach Center serves low-income, qualifying pregnant women for up to one year. Mothers receive biweekly material support including groceries, clothes, diapers and other household items. They also provide individual and group support classes to address issues that may be causing stress and help women create a plan for future success. Clients learn about health, parenting, nutrition and relationship building, as well as getting connected to English language classes and community resources if needed.
MiraVia has received a generous offer from an anonymous donor who will match gifts up to $50,000 if an additional $50,000 is raised by Divine Mercy Sunday, April 11. Donations will be automatically doubled and 100 percent of the contribution will be used towards the Outreach Center relocation project.
To make a secure online donation, go to www.miravia.org, or mail donations to MiraVia, 3737 Weona Ave., Charlotte, N.C. 28209. Indicate “Outreach Center relocation project” in the subject line. Questions? Call Megan Edahl at 704-525-4673, ext. 11.
— SueAnn Howell, senior reporter
CLEMMONS — The Joseph-Mary Foundation, founded by Father Peter Nouck, parochial vicar of Holy Family Church, recently sent more than 2,200 pounds of supplies and equipment to its sister branch in the impoverished southwest region of Cameroon. Members of Holy Family Parish were principally responsible for the donations.
The goal of the foundation, fondly referred to as JOMAFO, is to empower young people to seek a better life through education and health, all administered in the spirit of Christian teachings.
The shipment contains prescription medicines, medical and hygiene supplies, small medical equipment, and clothing. Computer supplies were also included to enable the foundation to establish a computer center for use by its students and the community.
The foundation is sponsoring 20 educational scholarships and is also working to achieve designation as a health center to be able to provide outpatient care.
Pictured are Hank Rudge, secretary of the foundation, and Doriant Kamsu of Onatech Cargo.
— Hank and Tina Rudge