In May, local community members participated in the silent auction at Aunt Mary's House first annual Brunch for Change fundraiser, ‘Hopeful Hearts’. The brunch was held at the Miles of Love venue in McDonough. More than 50 items were donated from local businesses, restaurants, and community members. (Photo by Ashley Rowland)

NORWICH — Last month, Aunt Mary's House (AMH), a house for mothers in crisis, held its first annual 'Brunch for Change' fundraiser, ‘Hopeful Heart.' The goal was to raise $15,000 and although not met, the program executives continue to look for additional monetary support.

“The goal of this fundraiser was to raise $15,000 to furnish Aunt Mary’s House, which is still in renovation, and make sure it's warm and welcoming to the ladies we'll be serving,” said Aunt Mary's House Executive Director Brenda White.

“We were only able to raise $3,020 in ticket sales and $2,151 from the silent auction,” said White. “After paying for the brunch catering, we deposited $3,221.”

Aunt Mary’s House President Jen Westervelt said, “We did not make our goal, so we would like to let everyone know that we are still taking in donations to help us get closer to that goal.”

She said that may consist of a one time donation to the program, a monthly donation, or a sponsorship.

“We would love to talk to anyone who may be interested in donating or may have questions as to how to donate,” she said. “If you're interested in becoming a monthly donor, also known as 'Friend of Aunt Mary's House' and committed to give a monthly donation, the convenience of auto withdrawal makes this commitment to AMH even easier.”

Westervelt said donations can be placed through their website at Auntmaryshouse.net, under the program called Stripe.