M.A.R.C.’s Friends Host Annual Christmas Party

By Jennifer L. Warren

NEWBURGH – Jemika Hall knows first-hand how deeply challenging and painful experiencing loss and hardship can be, particularly during the holiday season.

A huge piece behind her why of creating the not-for-profit, M.A.R.C.’S Friends, following the tragic and senseless loss of her 17 year old son, Marc, at the hands of gun violence, was to foster a community healing hub- riddled with large doses of love, support and hope- for others navigating similar crises.’ Whether it’s offering a safe space, afterschool outlet, critical school supplies, generous food pantry items or a host of other uplifting venues, the goal remains steadfast: To assist her community in whatever means needed, leaving it better than she found it.

Last Tuesday, inside the City of Newburgh’s Silk Factory, pieces of that altruistic mission, laden with positivity and joy, could be spotted as M.A.R.C.’S Friends continued a popular holiday tradition: its 6th Annual Christmas Pajama Party & Holiday Photo gathering. Here, youth, along with adults, clad in an assortment of festive nightwear, could be seen sitting with “The viral Santa Your Way Santa” or interacting with the Grinch as priceless, professional photos were captured for keepsakes. The five hour, activity-filled party also included; an animated dance contest with the Grinch at the helm, decorating a gingerbread cookie ornament and contest, enjoying a host of yummy treats, including; hot cocoa, pizza, cookies and cupcakes, along with each of the youth in attendance receiving a special holiday present.

“The whole purpose is to create a safe, fun, and interactive holiday experience for families while helping to ease the burden on parents,” said Hall, whose organization is thriving, enjoying its sixth year of offering integral assistance-time, mentorship, anything needed- to Newburgh community members navigating trauma and loss. “The holidays can be especially tough for families experiencing hardships or coping with loss and grief, and we wanted to provide a space, filled with joy, support and community.”

Visible signs of those goals being met could be detected throughout the Silk Factory. Whether it was a parent or guardian collaborating with a child on how to creatively adorn an ornament, a group of youth giggling as they perfected their dance moves alongside the iconic Grinch figure, or an excited boy or girl smiling wide as his or her eyes sparkled upon opening a gift and seeing its contents, the scene was filled with the joy of the holiday season. They are warm, happy scenarios that define what lies at the epicenter of M.A.R.C.’S Friends, delivering priceless healing, along with a powerful community network.

“Seeing the children smiling, watching the families come together and relax, while creating positive, holiday moments are just so meaningful,” said Hall. “It’s these kinds of positive experiences that help uplift children and families during a time that can be emotionally and financially challenging, creating moments of happiness, connection and hope.”

For many who attended, such as Alacey, owner of Newburgh-based, Suit Noir, who accompanied her nephew, the 3pm-8pm affair was also a special gift, wrapped in wonder and possibility, with a bowtie of the season’s wizardry.

“It was a sweet reminder of the family magic every family should feel during the holidays.”