CV NEWS FEED // A ten-year old boy from New Jersey has launched a profound personal ministry to feed the hungry in his community, having completed his fourth annual food drive just in time for Christmas.
Together with his parents, grandparents, and Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Newark, Dante Olshefski delivered 120 bags of food to a shelter called Mercy House in Jersey City according to a local news report.
“I wanted to do something nice for people who don’t have a lot,” Olshefski said.
The young boy collected food items from school and throughout his community in Denville. Olshefski then sorted the items with his family into bags to distribute to Mercy House.
Cheryl A. Riley, director of the Respect Life Office and The Mercy House said when she arrived at the food drive, Olshefski “greeted me with a warm smile and hug.”
She continued:
He was welcomed by our many clients who were able to receive the bags along with onions and potatoes that another donor also donated. We look forward to Dante’s food collection each year. This food drive has become a part of our Mercy House tradition.
The boy’s grandfather, Joseph Verzi said Olshefski’s effort, “demonstrates the power of taking initiative, the importance of empathy, and the profound impact of helping others.”
“Dante’s story is an inspiring reminder of the difference one young individual can make,” he continued. “His food drive addresses immediate needs and nurtures a sense of community and shared responsibility.”
Mercy House is a diocesan-run charity which operates in Jersey City and Elizabeth, NJ. The organization offers food, baby supplies, and “a welcoming space for individuals and families in need,”and which also seeks to provide “emotional support and healing in a comfortable, faith-filled environment.”
Mercy house currently provides shelter for 31 women who are without homes this holiday season.
