MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
Instead of dressing up and heading out for an evening gala, The Mary Magdalene House is asking supporters to stay home this month — all to help families who feel alone in the fight against mental illness, addiction and trauma.
The faith-based mission in Hutchinson is hosting a “stay-at-home” event on July 15. The concept is simple: families can skip the fancy clothes and the babysitter and spend the night together — all while making a donation to the nonprofit’s work.
“We know how valuable family time is, especially for families who are already facing challenges,” said Annette Van Bruggen, co-founder of The Mary Magdalene House. “So instead of asking people to come out for one more thing, we’re telling them: don’t leave your couch.”
Anyone who donates $50 or more by Aug. 1 will be entered into a drawing for six months of free jam from the ministry’s unique “jam ministry” — a nod to the group’s tradition of gathering people in the kitchen to talk and heal while stirring up homemade preserves.
The Mary Magdalene House provides free connection groups and pastoral counseling for families impacted by mental illness, addiction recovery, foster care and grief. Its programs are largely funded through donations and community support.
Van Bruggen said the stay-at-home fundraiser is one more way the organization lives out its mission.
“Sometimes the best way you can support a family is to remind them to just be together,” she said.
More information about the fundraiser and the mission’s work is available at www.marymagdalenehouse.com.