Villanova helps Second Chance Ministry

Grade 9-12 religion students from St. Thomas of Villanova Catholic High School made a large donation to Second Chance Ministry March 12.

Students at St. Thomas of Villanova Catholic High School helped out those in need with a large donation last week.

As part of a project during the Lent and almsgiving seasons, religion students at Villanova led a drive to collect personal hygiene items for Second Chance Ministry. The religion students ranged from Grades 9-12 and the initiative was part of a project where students could either do research into almsgiving or actually practice it.

Nicole Ray, one of the teachers that helped with the project, pointed out most students opted to give back.

“The response was overwhelming,” she said. “There’s so much generosity here. It’s like an overwhelming waterfall of love.”

Ray told a group of students gathered in her classroom that “this took a lot of love” and encouraged students to stay involved.

“Don’t underestimate the power you have as teenagers,” she told the students.

Second Chance Ministry mainly donates to those in need in Windsor, but volunteer Doug Byrne noting they are expanding into Essex County. They assist individuals and families in need with everything from gift cards and food to furniture.

“For every person we are able to help, there are three to five we can’t,” said volunteer Jim Houlihan, explaining the need they are seeing.

Byrne called the donations from the Villanova students “a huge help” and the items will be used as part of “love bags” packed for the marginalized people they assist. 

“It’s a good feeling to be able to give back to the community,” he stated.

Grade 12 students Olivia Douman and Sofia Borrowman pointed out that the donations included hygiene items and also such things as towels and sheets. 

“It makes us feel really good that we are able to make a difference in people’s lives,” said Douma. 

Douma added she was impressed when she saw the overall total of items.

“There’s a sense of fulfillment when you can help,” said Borrowman. “It’s so important to give back.”

Borrowman said not everyone is as fortunate as they are as not everyone can use or has access to basic items on a daily basis.

Villanova helps Second Chance Ministry

By Ron Giofu