Hammonton Assembly of God shows appreciation for single mothers

by Julie Fink, Gazette Staff Writer

Motherhood is a tough job. Having to go at it alone is even tougher. The members of the Hammonton Assembly of God church have chosen to hold a special outreach brunch in honor of the work they do that many times goes unnoticed and unappreciated.
The Hammonton Assembly of God, 272 Route 206 in Hammonton, is hosting a special outreach program for single mothers on Saturday, May 17 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon.
“It is a different section of the community we wanted to reach out to. It is about single mothers who go unappreciated. We just wanted to show them some kindness around Mother’s Day,” program coordinator Marcy McAnney said.
Single mothers from the area will be treated to a breakfast style brunch, an inspirational guest speaker, a free oil change gift certificate to Al & Rich’s and various “pampering” type prizes.
“We wanted to make it about things that they normally wouldn’t do for themselves. Pampering gifts include haircuts, facials and nail care. It should be nice,” she said.
The guest speaker Miss Delaware USA from 1975 Elaine Campanelli will speak on her experience as having been raised by a single mother, McAnney said.
Campanelli was raised poor, by a single mother with three sisters. She will speak on how she succeeded against such odds, she continued.
An additional bonus to guests is that childcare will be provided.
“There will be bounce houses and some of the couples from the church will be hosting volleyball and basketball games and a variety of outdoor activities and snacks,” she said.
The community has been extremely generous in donating time, products and services, McAnney continued.
“The community has been very helpful in coming together to get this done,” she said.
“Susquehanna Bank of Hammonton will be sending representatives to help the mothers open bank accounts for their minors in order to teach them the value of savings.
Susquehanna has offered to put the first $10 in their account,” she said.
“We want to be able to share with these women how our relationship with God has touched our lives and how good he can be in their lives,” she said.
The intention is to invite 100 single mothers. Registration is required.
Please call 567-9004 to register you or someone you know.