Letter to the Editor: The Coast Star

I would like to thank everyone for making the 4th Annual Harvesting Hope for Mental Health a tremendous success. Many hands make light work, and the day would not have been possible without the support and generosity of so many members of our community.

October is a special time of year for us here at The Samaritan Center at The Jersey Shore. We celebrate Harvesting Hope for Mental Health, which was held for the 4th year on Sunday October 6, 2024. October is also a particularly special month for us here at The Samaritan Center at The Jersey Shore with October 10th being World Mental Health day. Mental Health is at the center of all of our lives. As we foster Mental Health, we foster our overall health and well-being. We serve many purposes here at The Samaritan Center at The Jersey Shore however, our primary purpose as a Non-Profit corporation is to provide individuals, couples, and families in our community professional counseling services and education programs. We are dedicated to providing hope and healing to our community members that experience emotional distress or care for others with a developing mental health concern.

Harvesting Hope for Mental Health would not have been possible without all of our employees, board members, ambassadors, volunteers, and supporters! A special Thank you to Manasquan Hook and Ladder Company, you saved the day! We also want to thank The Salty Whale, Mariner Wealth Management, MHS Key Club volunteers, Mike Harold the Chalk man, and all of our attendees! A big thanks to the Ruckert family for their red truck providing a fun and festive fall backdrop for photo opportunities!

The Magnificent Mancini Brothers kept the vibes high and appealed to all age groups. The Ocean Dance Force brought smiles to many faces with their wonderful dance numbers to some classic songs. Jimmy’s Cucina and Peaches and Cream provided all of the necessary eats and sweets to accompany the beautiful sunshine as well as the popcorn and cotton candy machines operated by the MHS Key Club volunteers. The pony rides, petting zoo, face painting and balloon art were a great hit with children of all ages, even some of the adults! Overall, a successful 4th Annual Harvesting Hope for Mental Health FUNraiser.

Carolann Cavaiola, MA, LCADC, CCS
Executive Director