Giving Day Continues to Provide Life’s Essentials

By Jennifer L. Warren

NEWBURGH – It’s a tangibly electric scene.

Outdoors, on an early, brisk morning, large trucks, packed with hefty boxes are being unloaded in unison by energetic men chanting, “Let’s go;” droves of people, carrying an assortment of bags pass by them, saluting their diligent efforts as they smile and utter, “Good morning.” Meanwhile, inside the nearby building, more volunteers, around 40 or so, each sporting nametags, are eagerly opening up those just dropped off boxes, carefully lining up their contents on numbered tables, positioned in a strategically configured, circular shape. A familiar, friendly, upbeat aura emanates throughout, as more signs of synchronicity can be heard, “I got you,” one volunteer assures another, helping her move a box to its designated spot; while another shouts out, “Ten more minutes till go time.”

Laughter and joy is interspersed with arduous efforts, guided by an undeniable commitment to a critical task at hand.

Welcome to the monthly St. Mary’s Outreach Giving Day, taking place every third Friday at the Newburgh Armory Unity Center. Providing food, clothing, houseware, along with health and beauty items and an ensemble of other essentials, the over 20 year City of Newburgh cherished staple is overseen by Marietta Allen, who is most often situated- literally and figuratively- in the middle of this buzzing activity, coordinating it all with the deft skill of an orchestra conductor.

“It can be like a matrix, figuring out all the pieces that go into play making this happen,” explained Allen, who has to maneuver those parts to the puzzle each month, allowing it to flow as efficiently as it does. “We really load our clients up here, so they don’t have to come out every week, which is particularly nice in case of an emergency or catastrophe; they simply can put stuff in their freezers for long-term, which provides a sense of security and comfort.”

That safety net’s breadth was extensive this holiday month, extra specially embraced by guests this frigid, challenging time of the year. In addition to the regular assortment of over 50 food items, several hundred pounds of fresh, colorful produce that were generously provided by four area sources, brand new toys-ideal for holiday gifts donated by multiple entities, 48 coats compliments of the Knights of Columbus-Council 444 in Newburgh- as well as an eclectic mix of creatively hand knit items from a knitting group in Monroe were available.

“It’s just so nice to see, and I’m incredibly grateful, for the many people and businesses chipping in to make this happen, especially this time of the year when people really need the help,” said Allen, who is continually seeking out assistance to satisfy as broad of a client base as possible. “The most important part of doing this is knowing I can run and organize this program in a way to help the most people possible, hitting all the bases.”

Assigning select Giving Day volunteers to load up bags for veterans at the Armory as well as others to complete the work at American Legion Post 1420, Allen is able to deliver priceless food and other essentials to these populations as well as to senior citizens at the Fogarty Apartments.

“They love receiving these bags, as it can be so hard to get out, especially in the winter, and food is really expensive,” said Allen about the extended, mobile outreach efforts.
With beginnings that trace back over two decades to Saint Mary’s Church, Giving Day, a venture Allen dubs, “a leap of faith,” has evolved into a larger venue after Covid hit in 2020, securing a beautiful, spacious home at the deeply appreciated and embraced Armory site.

“Marietta never gave up when she had to look for a new location; it took over two years and more time than I can imagine, but she found it, and I was so happy for her,” said veteran 13 year Giving Day event volunteer, Linda Jansen, who cited Allen’s strengths as her organizational skill set and commitment to provide quality food to residents. “Marietta believes in this event and is very proud of its perseverance.”

Not only elated over its longevity, but also how many people she is able to assist here in Newburgh, Allen is intent on extending that impact in any way possible, serving as a human hub resource for anyone seeking help.

“We see it all, and want to give all over, as much as we can,” said Allen, who proudly explained how Saint Mary’s Outreach is one of the first names to pop up when people Google area food pantries. “I try to be a resource to the community, directing them where to go, that person they can call when they have a need for something. Reflecting further, as she relates a story of aligning some of those “jigsaw pieces” to secure elusive furniture for ecstatic recipients, Allen adds, “There are a lot of people in need and a lot of people who want to get help; the resources exist, and many times people just need to know where to go and to really know: There is always hope…. God is providing.”