Marcy’s Project began in the fall of 2019 when we met Marcy at Bemo’s, an 80-year-old woman who told us about a family she cared for in O’Fallon, MO. She was moving to Texas, so we volunteered to take over helping this family.
When we asked what was needed, Marcy pointed to a couple of things… First, do not “judge.” Someone else’s “norm” may not be our own. Second, she said, “I bet you have a lot of friends and connections that could help!” We do! We are surrounded by passionate, talented, and giving people. Many wanted to help, but weren’t sure how. This family taught us so many things about “need.” They made us think, how many others are out there that need help?
Then COVID-19 hit. We reached out to local nursing homes and school districts to see how we could help. The response was overwhelming!
Since launch, we have provided food for local school districts supporting their Meal Assistance Program, hard hit during the pandemic. Organized a Personal Care Drive, Marcy's Kids, providing less thought about items like deodorant, soap, shampoo, tooth brushes and paste, collecting almost 1000 items for kids in crisis situations. We have also helped with utility bills, gas cards, clothing, Christmas gifts, food for families and grocery store gift cards. We most recently distributed 100 Easter baskets to families in need in the St. Charles County area. This led to tapping into a “Pay It Forward” site where we started posting ways that we could help such as meals, clothes, food, etc. Again, we received an overwhelming response.
We are on a mission to not only feed those in need, but to educate them on how to incorporate healthier options on a budget through Marcy's Mealbox. Our goal is to distribute 25 meal boxes several times per year. Our 2022 goal is to offer these monthly. Each box includes ingredients, spices, and recipes to create 4 dinners and breakfast options all under $60! This is a free event for families in need in the St. Charles County area.
Twice a year, in the Spring & Fall, Marcy's Project provides Marcy's Market! This is a FREE event for families in need in the St. Charles County area. After signing up, families will receive a Google Doc survey. This document is completed so we are prepared to serve your needs at the event. While this event is free, we do consider this a “Pay It Forward” opportunity. We ask that families bring any new or slightly used items you no longer use.
Immediately following Marcy's Market, we host a "Pop-Up" Garage Sale. This is open to the public. Items available via donation (Cash/Venmo). All proceeds benefit Marcy's Project. Sometimes just providing the basics, such as personal care items, are difficult to do in time of need. We created an Amazon Market "Wish List" based on the responses we received from our Market & provide a link to donate items off our Amazon Market "Wish List".
The well-being of our aging community is extremely important to us. Covid impacted us all, but none more than those in nursing home facilities. We can brighten their day with “Marcy’s Milestones.” On the first of each month, we will deliver personalized birthday cards and mini Bundt cakes for that month’s birthday residents. Facility directors in the St. Charles County area can sign up their residents for birthday recognition monthly.
Because of Marcy’s kindness, Marcy’s Project is a reality! Our Non-Profit application has been submitted and we are waiting for final approval. We raise money through donations, fundraising, and selling items on Facebook Marketplace and Resale. Helping one family led to us helping others. This inspired the main goal of Marcy’s Project: help those who need it, one kind act at a time! We can all make a difference… One Kind Act at a Time!