Jersey City, NJ – As the new school year approaches, The Mercy House shattered its previous record by distributing nearly 800 backpacks filled with essential school supplies to families in need during a three-day giveaway event across northern New Jersey.
Held August 18–20, the Archdiocese of Newark’s Mercy House hosted its annual Back-to-School Giveaway in Jersey City, Newark, and Elizabeth. Each location served hundreds of local families, providing backpacks packed with pencils, notebooks, and classroom materials—all donated by generous parishioners and families throughout the archdiocese.
The Jersey City and Newark locations each distributed 251 backpacks, while the Elizabeth site gave out 200. An additional 90 backpacks were donated to the Newark Police Department and a Newark charter school for further distribution to students in need.
“Every student deserves to start the school year off right with new backpacks and fresh classroom supplies,” said Cheryl A. Riley, director of The Mercy House. “Unfortunately, many families cannot afford even basic items like crayons.”
This year marked the program’s largest turnout since its founding, far surpassing the 500 backpacks distributed in 2024. Beyond school supplies, families also enjoyed complimentary ice cream and took part in raffles for specialty backpacks.
Since 2018, The Mercy House has provided critical support services to those in need, including food, clothing, baby items, furniture, and help with housing and employment. The three locations in Newark, Jersey City, and Elizabeth collectively serve around 300 individuals each week.
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Key Points
- The Mercy House distributed nearly 800 school supply-filled backpacks in Jersey City, Newark, and Elizabeth
- This year’s giveaway was the largest in the organization’s history
- Families also received free ice cream and had a chance to win specialty backpacks
The Mercy House gave more than just school supplies—it delivered confidence, comfort, and community to hundreds of local families.
