Mercy Learning Center was awarded a $5,000
grant from People’s United Community Foundation. Shown, from left, are
Vincent Santilli, executive director of People’s United Community
Foundation; Maria Gutierrez, Mari Martinez and Marley Gonzalez Herrera,
MLC program participants; Jane Ferreira, MLC president and CEO; and
Armando Goncalves, officer of People’s United Community Foundation and
Southern Connecticut president for People’s United Bank.
As part of its ongoing effort to enhance the quality of life for
residents in the communities where People’s United Bank operates, the
People’s United Community Foundation, the philanthropic arm of People’s
United Bank, has awarded $5,000 to Mercy Learning Center.
The Mercy Learning Center helps low-income, undereducated women
achieve their education and employment goals by providing free adult
education programs and ancillary services. Programs offered include
English as a Second Language, Adult Basic Education and General
Education Development, as well as an early childhood education program,
vocational counseling, social services and a food pantry.
The funding from People’s United Community Foundation will provide
basic education literacy training, life skills workshops and computer
classes.
“This support from People’s United Community Foundation really
demonstrates what is possible when businesses and organizations come
together,” said Jane Ferreira, Mercy Learning Center president and chief
executive officer. “People’s United has empowered women and children
with their support for Mercy for decades and, as a result, helped to
create real, positive change in our community.”
“The programs and services offered by Mercy Learning Center are not
only helping women achieve their individual goals, but they are also
having a wonderful impact on their families,” said Vincent Santilli,
executive director of People’s United Community Foundation. “Mercy
Learning Center is building a foundation that is helping generations
succeed.”