Martha Hall Kelly

Author to speak at PNCW fundraiser Sept. 17

The Passaic Neighborhood Center for Women (PNCW) is embarking on its 11th year of helping underserved women by hosting a luncheon fundraiser, “An Afternoon with Martha Hall Kelly,” a New York Times best-selling author, on Tuesday, Sept. 17, from noon to 3 p.m. at the Rockaway River Country Club in Denville.

Kelly will speak about her most recent book, “The Golden Doves,” a historical fiction novel about two female spies during World War II who are members of the French resistance, known as the Golden Doves. 

The PNCW seeks to help women in urban areas with the belief that when women are empowered, the family is strengthened. It was created as a collaborative effort of religious communities in the Paterson Diocese. The center is located in a former convent at St. Stephen Magyar Church on Third Street in Passaic, one of the poorest cities in the state. 

“With a full and grateful heart, the Passaic Neighborhood Center for Women strives to help those most in need in our area. Despite rising food prices, rent, and utilities, the women work hard learning English to build better lives for their families,” said Lia Klein, the PNCW’s new director, adding that the luncheon is the center’s largest fundraiser.

Since opening in 2013, the center has provided education, training, and advocacy services to poor underserved women in the city and neighboring towns. It provides a safe, welcoming environment and fosters self-reliance, entrepreneurship, and community participation. Through seminars, workshops, and classes, the center empowers women to build better lives for themselves and their families.

The center features many enrichment classes based on the needs or interests of the women. These classes include English classes, quilting, crocheting, and gardening. The center has also hosted several craft sales of the women’s work. In recent years, the center has also offered seminars on immigration laws. The community garden enables women to bring home fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Parishes in the diocese donate baby diapers to help families. 

Tickets are $130, which includes lunch and a copy of the author’s most recent publication. Several sponsorships are available. 

Information: call 973-470-0844 or visit ncwpassaic.org  

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