From the Social Concerns Ministry.
Latinos Heal is an initiative dedicated to making a meaningful impact in our society, particularly by supporting underrepresented communities through donations and advocacy. Latinos Heal was founded on a vision shared by two high-schoolers, Melanie Rojas of Bloomfield High (also a parishioner here at St. Thomas) and Dylan Lozano of Bergen Catholic. These teens strongly believe that we must all help to “build a future we want to live in”. Their shared urge to help others led them to fundraising for OASIS, a social services organization in Paterson that focuses on supporting the mental and physical wellbeing of women and children in need. Melanie and Dylan have been selling baked goods and using their funds to support Oasis; they have extended their mission supporting Oasis with school supplies, clothing drives, and a GoFundMe that has received over $1,000 in donations.
The mission of Oasis in Paterson is to change the lives of women and children by breaking the cycle of poverty through programs that feed, clothe, educate, and empower them. Latinos Heals has visited Oasis on various occasions witnessing the action first hand. On one of these occasions they had the opportunity to interview staff. For example, Rosa shared all the work she has done as a Social Worker, and why she has stayed with Oasis after all these years, despite having other job opportunities. Being that Oasis is located in the heart of Paterson, she acknowledged that the language barrier is one of the most prominent issues that families face. She explained that Oasis’ social workers, like herself, assist students throughout the year with homework and active learning. These social workers also accompany parents to school meetings, giving families a sense of security. Ultimately, she has this close connection with the children and parents and describes Oasis as the “bridge that assists parents to feel comfortable and confident to speak”. Active donations allow for this bridge to hold a strong foundation and guide children through their difficult journey in unique ways, whether by providing physical or emotional support.
Latinos Heal believes that serving our neighbors is a key example of living the Gospel. Helping these needy women and children allows people to put their faith into action, just as they were taught. No matter the size, every gesture changes lives. Every gesture is a reflection of Christ’s love. With the support of the St. Thomas the Apostles Parish, Latinos Heal will be able to continue this compassionate mission; our parish will be helping to build this “safe haven” of hope and light for families in Paterson.
Please continue to support Latinos Heal’s mission of making the world a more equitable and nurturing place by either donating or simply spreading the word. Any donation is appreciated and will be used to directly help those in need. We thank the St. Thomas the Apostle community for its support during the Parish Picnic and ask for your generous donations (no cash or checks, please) -during our drive at weekend Masses September 27 and 28.
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