
Terry Ricciardi and Pat Glenn
Founders of Casa de Vida
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Casa de Vida was brought to life in December of 1982 by Terry Ricciardi, Pat Glenn and Sister Peter Damien. The three friends wanted to establish a home where pregnant young women could get the help they needed to have their child. As such, this non-profit provides support and services for young mothers-to-be who have nowhere else to go. From a place to call home to nutritious meals, parenting classes and medical assistance, Casa de Vida provides a plethora of opportunity and guidance.
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"It's always been a community effort," said Pat Glenn, co-found of Casa de Vida.
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St. Mary's Hospital donated the first Casa de Vida house 34 years ago. At that time, the house could accommodate four women and a housemother. Today, a new home sits at 1290 Mill Street and provides shelter for eight women at a time. It has also grown to include Wanda's Closet, an on-site clothing store that offers free infant, child and maternity clothing to Casa de Vida residents as well as others in the community.
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We're incredibly grateful that Terry, Pat and Sister Peter Damien worked to establish Casa de Vida, as it has such a positive impact on individuals and families throughout our community. As a token of our gratitude, we will be donating $1,000 to Casa de Vida, their charity of choice, in their name.
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