A tragic automobile accident occurred in upstate New York, taking the life of a Lady of Charity, her newborn baby, her sister, and a 12-year-old boy, all from Norristown, Pennsylvania. The support of the Vincentian Family amidst this tragedy has been incredible. Community leaders and politicians have also come together to lend their support. Below, we have included the article regarding the fundraiser from the Ladies of Charity USA website.

Fundraiser Held in Norristown, PA to Help Families of Accident Victims

An amazing fundraiser was held on Sunday, August 27, for the families of the victims of last weekend’s tragic accident in which a Lady of Charity and three others lost their lives.

The previous day began with a Mass at 5:00 AM celebrated by Fr. Flavio Pereira Tercero, CM and live-streamed on Facebook by Martha Romero, president of the Norristown LOC association.

The fundraising event followed on Sunday with musicians, karaoke, 2 children’s shows, face painting, raffles, lots of food, and more. All proceeds went to the Andrade Ramirez, Dolores Ramirez, and Estrada Ramirez families. Incredibly, in a huge show of support from the community, over $24,000 was raised at this event. This is a start towards the funds needed to help with the extensive medical and other expenses that the families will be facing.

Several Ladies of Charity from the Mid-Atlantic Region and their Vice President traveled to attend the event, in solidarity with the Norristown Ladies of Charity and the families. The Pittsburgh ladies presented a gift of a beautiful fall quilt, and raffle tickets were sold. The raffle will continue at the LCUSA National Assembly in September.

A local Lady of Charity who is a psychologist came to visit several family members, with the help of an interpreter, to begin grief counseling.

At least one representative of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul of Philadelphia also stopped by the fundraiser to show their support. They are encouraging their members to donate as well.

All these examples show what is possible with networking, mobilizing different branches of the Vincentian Family.

Click here and scroll down to see photos and video of the fundraiser.

Click here for information on making a financial contribution.