Mother Seton House, Inc. In the News

Archives:

Click the buttons below to go to Archived News.

2011 New

December 23, 2011

By Gail Geraghty

Bridgton News

Staff Writer

December 23, 2011

SANTA LOVES KIDS — At a recent Mother Seton House Christmas party, Santa Claus held court with Patricia Hoover and her son, Bentley Hoover.

FRYEBURG — It started out three years ago as a tiny seed of an idea tossed about by five people, to provide shelter to pregnant women, new mothers and infants in need.

That seed has since blossomed into 50 volunteers, $65,000 in donations, and — thanks to a recent matching $65,000 gift from the Kendal C. and Anna Ham Charitable Foundation — will take full flower next August, when Mother Seton House in Fryeburg Village finally opens its doors.

“I can’t tell you how amazing it is, the people who say yes to this all the time,” said Cyndi Broyer, volunteer director of the nonprofit Mother Seton House, Inc. The faith-based organization finalized purchase Nov. 28 of the home on a quiet, safe street, where from four to six women will live at no cost during their pregnancies and up to a year after the child is born.

“Our goal is to help women to transition to independent living situations, with the skills and resources needed to support themselves and their children,” Broyer said. Their families, in most cases, lack the space or financial resources to provide such support, and many pregnant teens or young mothers end up “couch surfing” at one place or another, without a stable home base.

The house will have a resident staff person who will provide security and promote healthy community living, and will also hold cooking and parenting classes for mothers not living there. The women will also be provided with counseling, physical, emotional and spiritual support.

After their stay at Mother Seton House, some of the mothers may opt to transition to Grace House, a smaller residence in North Conway, N.H. that was donated to the nonprofit by the Schiavi family and has been in operation since August. The up to two mothers who live here will be enrolled in some type of post-secondary education program, toward a goal of providing financially for their newborn.

The seed is born

Broyer, a teacher at New Suncook School in Lovell, was one of five members of the Social Justice and Peace Committee of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church who came up with the idea as a service project. The idea led to an organizational meeting of 20 people in August of 2007. The idea then evolved into an independent organization, led by an eight-member board of directors, and has been embraced by many churches and service groups in the Greater Fryeburg area.

The all-volunteer board of directors members have backgrounds in law, finance, business, education and law enforcement, and include Father Joseph Koury of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church and St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bridgton. The 50 volunteers, including members of the Knights of Columbus, Lions clubs and local churches, have been organized into committees, and support the mothers through fund raising, publicity, donations, social interactions, workshops, baby showers and special events.

“Sixty-five thousand dollars — from an idea,” said Broyer, who has seen first-hand the power of faith in action as the project has unfolded.

She cited, as just one example, the time an unexpected check came in the mail that just happened to cover the cost of plane tickets to Arizona so she and her husband Alan Broyer (board chairman) could visit Maggie’s Place, a home with a similar mission to Mother Seton House.

Another peak moment came when Mother Seton House competed for #1 top honors in an online Pepsi Challenge grant, when supporters logged on for a month in such numbers that Mother Seton rose to the #83 position. They didn’t win, and Broyer’s computer crashed from all the activity. But she said, “I was so proud of that.”

The trip to Maggie’s Place likewise energized everyone involved in the Mother Seton mission, said Broyer. “It was so exciting to see that it could really work.”

The 100-year-old two-and-a-half-story house in Fryeburg was purchased in a pre-auction foreclosure bid by a benefactor, and held for a year until the nonprofit was able to raise money to take it over.

The house needs new plumbing (the pipes were frozen), electrical upgrades, lead paint removal, a fire suppression system and new windows, and $30,000 still needs to be raised for those renovations. But as far as the layout of rooms is concerned, little needs to be changed.

“The set-up is really perfect for a residence. We want to keep its homey atmosphere,” Broyer said. Eventually, the garage may be renovated for office space for the organization, but the priority for now is on the women and their needs.

The lack of a physical house hasn’t deterred Mother Seton House from moving full-steam ahead on its mission. Since 2007, Mother Seton House has worked with 12 new mothers and pregnant women, offering classes and regular distributions of free diapers, baby clothing, furniture, books and toys. When the home opens, the nonprofit will narrow its focus to the women who live there.

The house will run on an annual operating budget of $40,000, and will include such programs as the Cooking Matters classes, lactation counseling, and both academic and parenting education.

While one might think there will be a long waiting list of pregnant mothers to live for free at Mother Seton House, “they’re not going to be pounding down the door,” Broyer said. That’s because in return for all the support they’ll be receiving, the women will be giving up some of their autonomy.

It’s a loving environment, but it’s structured,” Broyer said. Legally speaking, the home will operate as a boarding house; no boyfriends will be allowed to visit (although involvement by biological fathers is supported), and no active substance abusers will be allowed. If the woman has at least three months’ clean time and is trying to recover, she may be allowed, however. Women who are either pregnant or with a child under the age of one are eligible to apply if they meet financial criteria similar to federal rules for TANF assistance.

“Our mothers are not stupid. They’re brave, they’re smart, they’re very capable and very loving,” said Broyer. “What they are is poor. And that’s not a good start.”

Around four times a year, Mother Seton House has offered what it calls “The Distribution” — a day when baby and infant supplies, diapers, clothing and furniture are laid out on tables at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church and offered, free of charge, to the mothers. The donations have been stored, free of charge, by Terry and Sara MacGillivray, owners of East Conway Self-Storage, and the organization is looking for a new location to conduct the regular distributions.

Two alumni mothers in the program, Sonjia Tainter and Robyn Wilmot, took the distribution project one step further this past April, by creating a Facebook page called “Mommy’s Little Helper.” Here’s a typical posting: “Hi everyone, I just wanted to let you all know that with the help of?The Mother Seton House, I now have clothing for both boys and girls, up to size 18 months, as well as many other baby items such as hats, socks, bibs, bouncy seats and more. I would like to invite anyone who could use any baby items to message me for appointments.”

The Facebook page has inspired an Oxford Hills mother to create an “Oxford Hills Mommy’s Little Helper” page for donations and pick-ups closer to her home.

Both of the alumni mothers are also pursuing higher education. Sonjia, or “Sunny” as she is known, is studying at Granite State College in Conway, N.H., hoping to work with teens, and Robyn is attending White Mountain Community College, studying social work.

The benefits notwithstanding, “It takes a lot of courage” for a young mother to be involved with all of the services offered by Mother Seton House, said Broyer. “It’s been an honor to work with them.” Broyer said Mother Seton House welcomes anyone who would like to become involved in its work. She may be reached at 925-2322 or by e-mailing cyndi@klc5.com

****

November 11, 2011

Fryeburg -- A $65,000 gift from the Kendal C. and Anna Ham Charitable Foundation (HCF) will secure the purchase of a home for Mother Seton House (MSH), where pregnant women, mothers and their infants will reside while developing skills and resources for independence.  Executive Director Robert J. Murphy announced, “The Foundation is happy to help support the Mother Seton House and its mission.”  

The HCF award will finalize the sale of an existing Fryeburg house currently under purchase agreement in Fryeburg.  A 30,000 grant awarded in June 2011 by the   Gibson/Woodbury Charitable Foundation (GWCF) will  pay some costs for necessary improvements.  Fund raising efforts are ongoing to cover remaining improvements,  to provide furnishings and to sustain operating expenses.  MSH wishes to thank not only the Directors of both Charitable Foundations, but also all of the faithful supporters and volunteers who have made this possible.

****

August 21, 2011

PKA Students Make Gifts for Mother Seton House Babies

Left to right – Evan Leconey, Phinneus Lucy, Shelby Purslow and Charlotte Ackerman present colorful fleece baby blankets to Cyndi Broyer (center), Director of Mother Seton House.

Lovell – For the final week of their summer session focusing on community service, students of the Pequaket Kids Association (PKA) invited Cyndi Broyer, Director of Mother Seton House (MSH), to speak about MSH and to receive hand made gifts for MSH babies. The cuddly, vividly-colored fleece blankets will surely brighten the darkest winter day. In July 2010, PKA students offered tie-dyed undershirts and socks, followed by fleece hats in January 2011. They enjoy writing messages of love to the mothers and babies to accompany their gifts.

According to Director of PKA for MSAD #72, Laura Riggs-Mitchell, PKA operates school year and summer programs for elementary students in Brownfield-Denmark School, New Suncook School, and C. A. Snow School.

PKA will receive partial funding from 21st Century Community Learning Centers for 2011-2012. Payments received from parents, grants and donations from individuals and businesses in the community will be used to subsidize the cost of the program. Next year’s 21st Century Community Learning Centers’ funding is still in doubt while federal legislative bills are being considered.

Riggs-Mitchell further stated, “Every day after school, students participate in academic support/exploration, recreational programs, healthy food programs and enrichment activities designed to enhance learning, promote positive social interactions and increase their self-esteem.” Moreover, school, community and local resources build on students’ academic abilities and encourage new areas of interest.

For more information on Pequawket Kids Association, visit the website, www.pka.me, or call Laura Riggs-Mitchell, Director, at 207-935-1900.

****

Date: August 8, 2011

Mother Seton House Mothers Partner with Veggie Volunteers and Harvest for Hunger

Left to right: Kayla Neenan and her son Jackson Rocco and Robyn Wilmot and her daughter Keira McGlone admire the beauty and bounty of freshly picked Sherman Farm tomatoes

FRYEBURG – Six Mother Seton House (MSH) mothers recently attended six two hour classes of Cooking Matters to Maine. The program provided them with both class and hands on instruction for making healthy food choices and preparing nutritious foods for themselves and their babies. Now the MSH mothers are down on the farm and into the garden to partner with Veggie Volunteers at Sherman Farm in East Conway, NH and Harvest for Hunger at the UMAINE Cooperative Extension Office garden site in South Paris, Maine. Both programs are coordinated by the Master Gardener Programs of the University of New Hamphire (UNH) and University of Maine (UMAINE).

Harvest for Hunger has operated in Maine since 2000 and is a completely donor/ volunteer program. Master gardeners, civic groups, farms and individuals grow, glean and/or donate fresh produce to soup kitchens, pantries, seniors, shelters and those with limited access to fresh food. The goal for 2011 is 250,000 pounds. The organic garden in South Paris is cultivated under the direction of Extension Educator and Master Gardener Barbara Murphy.

In existence since 2002, the Veggie Volunteers Program (VVP) started in East Conway, when the Sherman family generously agreed to donate their nutritious surplus to food pantries, kitchens, senior centers and other groups serving a low income audience. The bi-weekly collection and distribution is coordinated by UNH Extension Service, while the team consists of Master Gardeners and other volunteers. Particularly dedicated to VVP, Master Gardener Ralph Lutjen also serves on the Budget and Capital Campaign Development Committees of MSH.

****

 July 14, 2011                                                                                          

Advisory Board of Gibson/Woodbury Charitable Foundation Congratulates Mother Seton House of Fryeburg, Maine

Left to right foreground: GWCF Executive Director Mark Butterfield; MSH Board Chairman Alan Broyer.  Background, MSH Trustee Gene Bourque;  nephew and brother of Evelyn Woodbury, Gary and Clifton Smith; MSH Trustee Rick Luksza; sister and grandniece of Evelyn Woodbury, Elaine Farrugia and Arielle Butterfield; MSH Trustee Loretta Chauvin; GWCF Advisor Tom Smith. Not pictured: GWCF Advisor Ken Cargill, MSH Director Cyndi Broyer, MSH Trustees Linda Hutchinson, Rev. Joseph Koury, Joan Newton.   

The Advisory Board of the Gibson/Woodbury Charitable Foundation (GWCF) concluded its first year of operation by inviting Trustees of  Mother Seton House (MSH), a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting pregnant women, new mothers, and infants in need, to the Gibson/Woodbury House in North Conway.  GWCF Advisory Board presented Alan Broyer, MSH Board Chairman with a check for $30,000 as a gift toward the purchase of a home in Fryeburg, Maine.  This substantial sum allows Mother Seton House to proceed with the essential goal of a safe, supportive environment for mothers and infants.

With his family members present, Mark Butterfield, GWCF Executive Director, explained to the gathering that this grant request among all the others that the Board made in 2011, exemplifies  the core values of its founders, the Gibsons and the Woodburys, that education should begin as early as possible and then be nurtured throughout childhood by a caring and loving parent or parents who are able to provide a stable learning environment. The Gibsons and the Woodburys were strong believers that the best education a child could ever experience begins in the home and that those early years of life are the most critical to early childhood formation of positive learning habits and the development of a strong work ethic. 

  The Advisory Board of the Gibson/Woodbury Charitable Foundation is honored to be a part of the inception of the Mother Seton House residence in Fryeburg, Maine. Coincidentally, the MSH mission of providing education, counseling, referrals, and physical, emotional and spiritual support within a caring community to new mothers and children was one of the guiding principles that the founders envisioned when they initiated the creation of The Gibson/Woodbury Charitable Foundation.

MSH Board Chairman, Alan Broyer stated that the mothers residing with their babies at Mother Seton House will not only be coached in parenting, consumer, employment and relationship skills, but will begin to develop the resources needed to support themselves and their children.  Grateful MSH trustees, volunteers, donors and Director Cyndi Broyer are heartened by the confidence of the Advisory Board of the Gibson/Woodbury Charitable Foundation. 

****

  COOKING MATTERS to Mother Seton House Mothers and Babies

June 26, 2011

Left to right, students Alexandria Waterman, Sonjia Tainter, Robyn Wilmot, Brittany Miller, Kayla Neenan listen attentively to Chef Chris Gillespie, second from right, discuss ingredients and nutritional value of yogurt, fruit and granola to layer into stem glasses for Yogurt Parfait.

FRYEBURG – Through a partnership with Cooking Matters to Maine, Mother Seton House mothers are attending a series of six classes designed to teach parents how to make healthy food choices and prepare nutritious foods for themselves and their babies.  Chef Chris Gillespie, Kitchen Manager/Cook, MSAD 72 is volunteering her time and expertise to lead the hands-on courses.  Karen Toohey, Becky Mosley of UMAINE Extension Service and Nutritionist Eileen Grant Szeto alternate to assist the sessions.

Each class teaches basic cooking techniques, healthy eating habits and budgeting.  Together students and instructors prepare healthy, tasty, low cost meals while deriving the most nutrition from a limited budget.  After class, everyone sits down together to share the meal.  Participants then take home the day's recipe and a bag of groceries containing ingredients to make the main dish at home.

An avid proponent of the course, Szeto contacted Mother Seton House Director Cyndi Broyer.  Kristen Miale, Cooking Matters to Maine Program Director, arranged for the program to be provided at no cost. Junior League of Greater Portland provided new kitchen utensils for classroom use. 

Cooking Matters is a national program developed by the staff of Share Our Strength, whose goal is to end childhood hunger in America.  Cooking Matters to Maine is managed by the Good Shepherd Food Bank, which has helped thousands of Maine's hungry get access to the food they need to live healthy, productive lives.

****

May 24, 2011                              

Knights of Columbus of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish Support Mother Seton House

Grand Knight John O'Brien presents Director of Mother Seton House Cyndi Broyer with a check for $500.

Windham – Knights of Columbus Council 10020 in Windham invited Director Cyndi Broyer of Mother Seton House (MSH) to be keynote speaker at their May 16 meeting.  On a large screen provided by her audience of approximately 30 members,  Broyer presented a multi-media overview of the MSH mission in action.  Questions were fielded by Broyer as a hat was passed to collect an additional $212.  To schedule the 30 minute, 37 slide presentation, groups are invited to call Cyndi at 207-925-2322, or email  info@mothersetonhouse.com

Council 10020 of the Knights of Columbus was chartered to unite the men of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish with goals of good works to promote respect for life, to safeguard the environment and to help today's youth, not only in the Parish, but in their communities at large.

On Saturday, June 11th, Mother Seton House is hosting Hole 1 in the World's Largest Mini Golf Tournament sponsored by Mount Washington Valley Kiwanis Club.  Help the MSH team win by donating to www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/cyndibroyer/hole1

Mother Seton House is a 501(c)3 non profit organization giving support to pregnant women, new mothers and infants in need.  Fryeburg and surrounding communities in both Maine and New Hampshire are served.  Donations in any amount are gratefully accepted by mail to Mother Seton House, Inc; P.O. Box 673; Fryeburg, ME 04037, by deposit to any Norway Saving Bank, or via Paypal at www.mothersetonhouse.com 

****

May 21, 2011                                       

Community Members Donate Time and Talent to Mother Seton House Mothers and Babies

Darlene Reardon, left, and Susan Reeves, right, style a curly hairdo for Alyshia Palmer

FRYEBURG –  While Mother Seton House volunteers coddled babies, five young mothers had their hair styled by Susan Reeves and Darlene Reardon of the Root Cellar and one baby girl was treated to her first hairdo. Afterward photographer Joy Voter photographed the pretty young mothers with their babies.  A selection of Voter's photographs will be made available for each mother to choose a favorite for prints.

In upcoming events, on Saturday, June 11^th, Mother Seton House is hosting Hole 1 in the World's Largest Mini Golf Tournament sponsored by Mount Washington Valley Kiwanis Club.  Help the Mother Seton House team win by donating  at ww.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/cyndibroyer/hole1.  There is also one more team spot available by contacting Myles Crowe at jcjadkson@gmail.com.

Mother Seton House is a 501(c)3 non profit organization giving support to pregnant women, new mothers and infants in need.  Fryeburg and surrounding communities in both Maine and New Hampshire are served. Donations in any amount are gratefully accepted by mail to Mother Seton House, Inc; P.O. Box 673; Fryeburg, ME 04037, by direct deposit to any Norway Saving Bank, or via Paypal at www.mothersetonhouse.com  Please email Director Cyndi Broyer at info@mothersetonhouse.com for further information. 

 ****

Bridgton News on May 12, 2011

Parishioners of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church Buy Mother's Day Flowers to Support Mother Seton House Mothers and Babies

From left are Joan Newton, Director Cyndi Broyer, Irina Norkin and Denise Kwasnick with their dazzling display of carnations.

FRYEBURG – After Sunday Mass on Mother's Day, parishioners and visitors flocked to purchase red, white and several shades of pink carnations for all of the mothers in their lives.  By doing so, they were contributing to Mother Seton House.  For the second year,  the flowers were generously donated by Cathy Berg, owner of Cathy's Florist on Main Street in Fryeburg.

On Saturday, May 14, look for Mother Seton House volunteers at the Black Fly Festival in the Fryeburg Academy Gym from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.  They will be selling Italian Ice to support their work.  Then on Saturday, June 4^th, they are hosting a hole in the whacky Mini Golf Tournament sponsored by the North Conway Kiwanis Club.  Be sure to attend these events and  have fun while contributing to a very worthy cause.

The Conway Daily Sun on April 30, 2011

Our Lady of the Mountains Knights of Columbus Conduct Workshop for Mother Seton House Mothers

Pictured above, from left, Earl Whitaker, Kevin Gilbride, Don Litchko, Robyn Wilmot and Keira McGlone smile their satisfaction upon completion of a bookcase

FRYEBURG – Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Church Hall was the scene of an intensive bookshop building session under the supervision of Don Litchko.  Don pre-cut, pre-drilled and provided all of the parts necessary.  Four mothers including Sunni Tainter, Alexandria Waterman, Robyn Wilmot and Tricia Hoover met to assemble the pieces while Don, along with Earl and Kevin mentored the process.  Within three hours the parts were sanded, then glued and screwed together.  Painting or staining will be completed at each woman's convenience.  The two older babies tried their hands at sanding. The youngest smiled happily as Director Cyndi Broyer read to him aloud. During the month of July Mother Seton House held a Reading to Your Baby workshop. Books rich in language and repetition to engage the babies were donated and distributed to the mothers in attendance.

The Knights of Our Lady of the Mountains Council 7575 have once again proved that they are do-ers, dedicated to helping those in need. More importantly they modestly affirmed that it was they who had experienced “one great day,” while gently guiding “the beautiful kids and moms.”

****

Feb. 26, 2011

Conway Daily Sun

Pictured from left:  Cyndi Broyer,  Director Mother Seton House; Jim Hartigan, Grand Knight, Our Lady of the Mountains Council #7575 Knights of Columbus; Don Litchko, Active Member - Trustee 3^rd Year

FRYEBURG – Jim Hartigan and Don  Litchko presented checks to Cyndi Broyer to support the work of Mother Seton House. One, in the amount of $1,500 is the anonymous donation by a family of Our Lady of the Mountains Parish who, in the spirit of Christmas, pooled the money that they would have spent on gifts to help struggling new mothers and their infants. The second, a memorial donation of $1,000 was offered by the Knights to honor their recently deceased Chaplain of 20 years, Father Louis Soucey.  Father Lou loved and served parishioners of Our Lady of the Mountains for 25 years and they loved him in return. “The Knights in Council 7575 are do-ers, dedicated to helping those in need regardless of race or religion.” (for more information see www.northconwaykofc.org . In 2010, through diligent fund-raising the Our Lady of the Mountains Knights donated $7,500 to mentally challenged individuals and to Special Olympics. They conducted a successful Easter Food Drive; moreover, the Christmas Food Drive alone produced $1,200 in food certificates and two tons of groceries. They sponsored seminarians and nuns; provided outreach emergency needs locally and worldwide; and conducted special charity fund-raisers as needed; assuring that every dollar that they raise is contributed. Mother Seton House Inc. is a non-profit organization giving support to pregnant women, new mothers and infants in need. Fryeburg and surrounding communities in both Maine and New Hampshire are served.

****

Pequaket Kids Association Again Helps MOTHER SETON HOUSE                                                              Conway Daily Sun  Jan 22, 2011 Pequaket Kids Association students, left to right Kate Re, Shania Drew, Austin Garrett, Reilly Brown, Ainsley Foster, Zachary Boucher present personally cut and sewn hats to Mother Seton House Director Cyndi Broyer. LOVELL - Under the guidance of coordinator Heather Sawin and assistant Dawn Ferguson, Pequaket Kids Association students taking part in the Community Service Club have been helping various groups in their community. Sawin reports that they made fir pillows for the troops, decorated boxes for area Christmas food baskets, made fleece pulls and dog treats for Service dogs of ACTS and fashioned the little hats for the babies of Mother Seton House. At the end of the summer session, the students tie-died undershirts and socks for Mother Seton House newborns. They still have plans to help promote dental health in their school and purchase soccer balls for the Building Peace through Play programs of Heifer International. Pequaket Kids Association was made possible by a federally funded grant to C.A. Snow School in Fryeburg, Denmark School and New Suncook, all Twenty-First Century Community Learning Centers. The latter offer an after school enrichment program providing academic support, activities and snacks. Until the end of January you can help Mother Seton House to get a home for their moms and babies by voting in the Pepsi Refresh Project for a $250,000 grant: Text 104822 to Pepsi (73774), Friend Cyndi Broyer on Facebook, go to www.refresheverything.com/mothersetonhouse . Mother Seton House Inc. is a non-profict organization giving support to pregnant women, new mothers and infants in need. Fryeburg and surrounding communities in both Maine and New Hampshire are served. Donations in any amount are gratefully accepted by mail to Mother Seton House, Inc; P.O. Box 673; Fryeburg, ME 04037, or by direct deposit to any Norway Saving Bank. For further information see www.mothersetonhouse.com ****

Mother Seton House ranks in top 100

Non-profit gets second chance at Pepsi Refresh Project $250,000 grant

FRYEBURG — Mother Seton House has another chance to win a $250,000 grant from the Pepsi  refresh Project, and needs the help of local people to make that happen. The non-profit organization provides support and services for pregnant women and new moms, and is looking to purchase a home for expectant mothers who need a place to live. About $30,000 has been raised toward a home, and members of the organization hope that the $250,000 grant from Pepsi’s “Refresh Project” will help them fulfill their dream. The “Pepsi Refresh Project” is an online voting challenge in which anyone may vote for a project, and the company is giving away millions of dollars to non-profit organizations, businesses and individuals for projects to better communities. Mother Seton House took part in the December round of voting, and although it was not the top vote getter, the organization qualified among the top 100 ideas in the Pepsi Refresh Project, earning another opportunity to win one of the $250,000 grants in the January 2011 project. Cyndi Broyer, executive director, was notified by Pepsi Refresh Project committee at 8:22 a.m. on Jan. 3. “You finished among the Top 100 in your grant tier. Since you came so close, we’re giving your idea another chance by automatically entering it into the next submission period.” To win this national challenge, Mother Seton House needs the help of the entire extended community of the Mount Washington Valley and beyond. People are being asked to vote daily until Jan. 31, and to enlist friends, co-workers, family members, church groups, clubs and organizations to become supporters. Cast your vote daily in one of the three following ways: on the Mother Seton House page on Facebook, by texting * 104822 to Pepsi (73774), or by going to www. refresheverything.com/mothersetonhouse for Internet voting and clicking on “Join Refresh Everything” in the blue banner lower left. When you are signed in, be sure to click “vote for this idea.” You will know that your vote is counted when the 10 becomes 9. The planned transitional home would serve four to six women at a time at no cost until their babies turn 1 year old. Volunteers would provide educational programs and the Mother Seton House would provide a residence director. Fryeburg and surrounding communities in both Maine and New Hampshire are served. Donations in any amount are gratefully accepted by mail to Mother Seton House, Inc; P. O. Box 673, Fryeburg, ME 04037, or by direct deposit to any Norway Saving Bank.

<2010 News>

December 1, 2010

Mother Seton House, Inc. selected for chance of a $250,000.00 Pepsi Refresh Everything Grant.

Article Published by Catholic Maine

What would you do with $250,000? Mother Seton House, a transitional home for mothers in difficult circumstances, knows exactly what it would do: buy a new home. Mother Seton House is a nonprofit, faith-based crisis center which provides education, counseling, referrals, and physical, emotional and spiritual support to expectant or needy mothers.They serve the Fryeburg area, which includes Brownfield, Denmark, Lovell, Stow, Sweden, Stoneham, Bridgton, Naples, Harrison, Casco, Sebago, Me, and Conway and Chatham, NH and are hoping to receive a $250,000 grant from the "Pepsi Refresh Challenge," but they need your help.

As Christmas approaches and our thoughts turn to a young mother delivering her child far from comfort and home, please consider casting a vote for Mother Seton House.

THE CONWAY DAILY SUN, Thursday/Friday, November  25-26, 2010 

Mother Seton House in  Pepsi Refresh Challenge 

FRYEBURG, Maine — The Mother Seton House in Fryeburg, Maine is entered in the Pepsi Refresh Challenge to win a grant of $250,000. Pepsi is giving away millions of dollars each month to people, businesses, and nonprofits with ideas that will have a positive  impact on the world. The ideas with that receive the  most votes at www. refresheverything.com are awarded  money to bring the ideas to life. The Mother Seton House Inc. has been working to raise funds to help the women who are expecting or those who have already had a baby. At this time nine mothers are receiving material needs like baby furniture and equipment along with physical,  emotional and spiritual help where needed. The Seton group has the funds ear marked for a suitable house  as a place for expectant mothers who need a place to live. The Mother Seton House is a nonprofitt which was started in April of 2007 and  was incorporated in January of 2008 by a group of people who saw women in situations where they needed help and support. Those who need the support would not only  receive it but would be shown how to better their condition in life through education and counseling.  No one would be turned away but taken in according to their need.  The Seton House  serves an area which includes Fryeburg and the  surrounding area of Maine and New Hampshire, making it a possibility to win if  each community goes online and votes. Voting starts after midnight on Dec. 1 through Dec. 31. To vote visit  www.refresheverything.com in December and search for the Mother Seton House. Registration is required to vote or can be done through a Facebook account. 

Pepsi Refresh Everything Video submission.

Click above Icon to view video

November 29, 2010

WMWV 93.5. Drive Time radio interview with host Gair McKenzie and MSH guests, Loretta Chauvin and Sonjia Tainter.

Click to here interview.

Sun 09/11/2010

Mother Seton House thanks Maine Community Foundation and Sherman Farm for fresh local baby food

FRYEBURG – Under a grant from the Maine Community Fund, Michelle Hatch Dutton brought fresh produce and nutrition instruction to mothers at Mother Seton House in Fryeburg.
Equipment and supplies purchased with a $500 grant from the Community Building Grant Program for Program Expansion of the Maine Community Foundation were used by Dutton, who provided fresh Sherman Farm produce and instruction for Mother Seton House mothers wanting their babies to experience local seasonal food.
The goal of the grant was “to provide education to pregnant women and young mothers in need in the areas of nutrition, health and parenting.”
Robyn Wilmot summed up the success of the day. “Keira had some of the food from today for dinner and she loved it. With how much she liked the fresh food it makes me want to try and make my own! We both had lots of fun today.” Mother Seton House volunteers rocked and played with the babies while their mothers learned useful new skills in the kitchen of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church Hall.
The mission of Mother Seton House is to serve, in a nonprofit, faith-based transitional home, pregnant women in difficult circumstances, with the goal to provide education, counseling, referrals, and physical, emotional and spiritual support in a caring community. Mother Seton House Inc. welcomes all women regardless of their race, color, religion or national origin. It is a 501C3, serving Fryeburg and surrounding communities in Maine and New Hampshire. Donations in any amount are gratefully accepted by mail to Mother Seton House, Inc. P.O. Box 673; Fryeburg, ME 04037, or by direct deposit to any Norway Saving Bank.
For over 25 years the Maine Community Foundation has been partnering with donors and community groups to strengthen Maine through grants and scholarships. For more information, visit the foundation's web site at                 www.mainecf.org or call toll-free 1 (877) 700-6800.

Feb. 17, 2010         

Our Lady of the Mountains congregation contributes to Mother Seton House

Smiling their thank yous are, first row, left to right: Sonjia (client liaison) and Breyden, Amanda Paille and Wyatt; second Kathrina Farnham delivery date Feb. 17), Robyn Wilmot and Keira, Allison Davis and Taylor, Cyndi Broyer, Executive Director, holding Camerin Caille.

FRYEBURG — The congregation of Our Lady of the Mountains Roman Catholic Church in North Conway was challenged by parishioner Kathie Bertrand to bring Gifts from the Heart. Encouraged by their pastor, Rev. Donald F. Gauthier Jr., who is a long time supporter of Mother Seton House, they responded with enthusiasm. They remembered the message he gave on the first Sunday of Advent, “Jesus asks us to realize that our gifting to another also includes announcing the promise to all, reminding each other that all are to be honored and revered. They are rightful heirs. Exclusion is not nice! It certainly doesn’t belong in church. The gifting that we’re to be about, is to help overcome loneliness and separation and declare our connection to one another.” The 8,000 diapers and 4,000 wipes amassed were distributed to a total of 10 mothers and their infants, along with clothing, bedding, books, toys and baby furniture. This occurs regularly and at no cost to the mothers. Founded in 2007, Mother Seton House Inc is a private, non-profit, faith-based crisis center for pregnant women in difficult circumstances. The goal is to provide shelter, education, counseling, referrals, physical, emotional and spiritual support in a caring community and to transition mothers into independent living situations with the skills and resources needed to support themselves and their children. All women regardless of their race, color, religion or national origin are welcome. Fryeburg and surrounding towns in Maine and New Hampshire are served. Tax deductible donations from the heart for a shelter may be sent to Mother Seton House Inc. PO Box 673, Fryeburg, ME 04037.

Lovell Scouts support Mother Seton House

article by: Loretta Chauvin, photo by: Cyndi Broyer

FRYEBURG — During the Christmas holiday season Girl Scout Troop 101 in Lovell fashioned colorful fleece blankets. They also bought baby food and collected baby books. Then they happily displayed their work to Mother Seton House Executive Director Cyndi Broyer, who, assisted by Sunni Tainter, client liaison to the board of directors, later organized and distributed their gifts along with donated clothing to five moms and their infants. Clothing, diapers, bedding, books, toys and baby furniture are distributed through Mother Seton House regularly at no cost to the mothers. Founded in 2007, Mother Seton House Inc is a private, non-profit, faith-based crisis center for pregnant women in difficult circumstances. The goal is to provide shelter, education, counseling, referrals, physical, emotional and spiritual support in a caring community and to transition mothers into independent living situations with the skills and resources needed to support themselves and their children. All women regardless of their race, color, religion or national origin are welcome. Fryeburg and surrounding towns in Maine and New Hampshire are served. Anyone who would like to make a donation can send tax deductible donations for a shelter to Mother Seton House Inc., P.O. Box 673, Fryeburg, Maine.

Conway Daily Sun - Jan. 30, 2010

2010 CALENDAR FOR CHARITY

"Count Me in Too" by Andy Kohn, 2nd Place Amateur Division,

FRYEBURG - MOTHER SETON HOUSE has been selected to share with STARTING     POINT in the net proceeds from sales of the 2010 CALENDAR FOR CHARITY, “There's No Place Like Home”, produced by Bernie Friberg. Each monthly art photograph featuring some aspect of our home here in the White Mountains and chosen by a team of judges, is accompanied by an appropriate, inspirational quote.

November's photograph titled “Count Me in Too” evokes a quote from Thomas Merton: “The whole idea of compassion is based on a keen awareness of interdependence of all living beings, which are all part of one another and all involved in one another.” Merton converted to Catholicism, became a Trappist monk and advocated for social justice and peace in his writings. Permission to use his Madonna drawing as logo was exceptionally granted to MOTHER SETON HOUSE, by the Merton Legacy Trust and the Thomas Merton Center at Bellarmine University.

Executive Director, Cyndi Broyer states that “Since our goal is to provide, education, counseling, referrals and physical, emotional and spiritual support in a caring community and since we welcome all women regardless of their race, color, religion or national origin, the quote is particularly relevant.” “We are currently fund raising for a shelter that will be a private, nonprofit, faith-based crisis center for pregnant women in difficult circumstances.”

At this time of year as thoughts turn to a young mother delivering her child far from home and comfort, you are invited to send tax-deductible donations for a shelter, to MOTHER SETON HOUSE, PO Box 673, Fryeburg, ME 04037.

Purchase calendars at Badger Realty, from members of Mother Seton House, by arrangement from Bernie Friberg (207-542-9967) and on line www.photocontest.com. Please make your check payable to MOTHER SETON HOUSE, INC.

2009 News

DATE: December 2, 2009

MOTHER SETON HOUSE displays DeIulio art in Conway Library

During the month of December, Mother Seton House is displaying in Conway Library's Ham Community Room paintings from the Robert DeIulio Donation. A well known local artist, DeIulio (12/12/1934 to 12/13/2003) was President of the Mount Washington Valley Arts Association in 2000. His medium is water color in the vitreous flux technique originated by David Baker, while his style is impressionistic and abstract. There are fifteen original works and three numbered laser prints of various sizes, all available for purchase. Included are Repose, Dew Point, Ebb Tide, and Stoney's Place.

Founded in 2007, Mother Seton House Inc is a private, non-profit, faith-based crisis center for pregnant women in difficult circumstances. The goal is to provide shelter, education, counseling, referrals, physical, emotional and spiritual support in a caring community and to transition mothers into independent living situations with the skills and resources needed to support themselves and their children. All women regardless of their race, color, religion or national origin are welcome. Fryeburg and surrounding towns in Maine and New Hampshire are served. At this time of year as thoughts turn to a young mother delivering her child far from home and comfort, you are invited to send tax-deductible donations for a permanent shelter to: Mother Seton House, PO Box 673, Fryeburg, ME 04037.

Sunni Tainter (right) and Loretta Chauvin, PR COMMITTEE of MOTHER SETON HOUSE, complete the Robert DeIulio Display in the Conway Library.

Medley" by Robert S. DeIulio

NEWS RELEASE by Loretta Chauvin

DATE: July 15, 2009

Robert DeIulio art to premiere at arts and crafts festival July 25

The premiere showing and sale of selected art works, prints, originals and tiles, by the late artist Robert S. De Iulio, constituting the donation of his widow Margaret to Mother Seton House in Fryeburg, will take place at the MAINE STREET ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL in Bradley Park on July 25.

Professionally, DeIulio (1934-2003) was a guidance counselor and school psychologist. He was President of the Mount Washington Valley Arts Association in 2000. His belief that relaxation was possible only when in touch with nature and oneself enabled his impressionistic and abstract paintings to relate his own communion with nature and with others. They invite the observer to compare personal interactions to those of the painter in a quest for the energetic universal connection. DeIulio's medium was watercolor, but in his latter years the technique of vitreous flux brought his artistic journey to a new level of intensity. Vitreous flux, "flowing like glass," was created by David Baker of Jackson NH in 1951. Layer upon layer of watercolor is applied on a smooth surface to create texture and energy.

Mother Seton House was founded in 2007 and is a private, nonprofit, faith-based crisis center for pregnant women in difficult circumstances. Its mission is to provide education, counseling, referrals, physical, emotional and spiritual support in a caring community. All women regardless of their race, color, religion or national origin are welcome. Tax deductible contributions for a suitable permanent shelter may be sent to MOTHER SETON HOUSE, PO Box 673, Fryeburg, ME 04037.

NEWS RELEASE by Loretta Chauvin

Date: June 28, 2009

Mother Seton House to use Thomas Merton Madonna image in its logo

FRYEBURG - The Mother Seton House has received permission from the Merton Legacy Trust and the Thomas Merton Center at Bellarmine University to use as its logo a Madonna image by Thomas Merton (1915-1968). Merton converted to Catholicism in 1938 and became an ascetic Trappist monk in 1941. A spiritual journey of self-understanding led him to become the conscience of the peace movement of the 60's, the civil rights movement, and non-violent social justice. He studied Eastern religions, praised by Dalai Lama as having a more profound comprehension of Buddhism than any other Christian he had known. He is distinguished among contemporary spiritual writers by the depth and substance of his thinking. He was a scholar who distilled the best thinking of the best theologians, philosophers and poets throughout the centuries, from both the West and The East, and presented their thinking in the context of the Christian world view. Currently 70 of his books are in print. www.merton.org

Mother Seton House operates independently of St Elizabeth Ann Seton Church in Fryeburg. It was founded in 2007 by members of that Parish's Social Justice and Peace Commission, several of whom also founded Dinner Bell North, a community supported and operated free weekly meal service since 1990. The goal of the former is to provide shelter, education, counseling, referrals, physical, emotional and spiritual support and to transition mothers into independent living situations with the skills and resources needed to support themselves and their children, serving Fryeburg and surrounding communities in Maine and New Hampshire. Dr Paul Pearson, Director and Archivist of the Thomas Merton Center, stated that "...the Merton estate is willing to forgo a fee for your use of the image. It is a donation to this good work."

Fund raising is now in progress to finance a suitable, permanent shelter. Donated works by the late local artist Robert De Iulio will be offered for sale at the MAINE STREET ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL on July 25 in Bradley Park, Fryeburg. Tax deductible contributions may be mailed to: The Mother Seton House; PO Box 673; Fryeburg, ME 0403

DATE: March 31, 2009

New Home will help women with pregnancy and maternity assistance and education

Fryeburg Maine - THE MOTHER SETON HOUSE INC recently received a $3,500.00 grant from the Maine Charity Foundation Fund of the MAINE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION to provide women with pregnancy and maternity assistance and education. An indoor flea market conducted by founding members will be held 9:00AM to 2:30PM on April 25 in the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church Hall in Fryeburg, north of the junction of routes 5N and 302E. The public is invited.

"This grant will allow us to continue transitioning women into independent living situations with skills and resources needed to support themselves and their children," said Cyndi Broyer, Director of the Mother Seton House. " Our long range goal is to purchase and to maintain a permanent transitional shelter." The Mother Seton House, Inc. was founded in 2008 as a not-for-profit, faith-based transitional crisis center for pregnant women or mothers in difficult circumstances, providing shelter, education,

counseling, referrals, physical, emotional and spiritual support in a caring community. It welcomes all women, regardless of their race, color, religion, or national origin. Tax deductible contributions may be mailed to: The Mother Seton House, PO Box 673, Fryeburg, ME 04037.

For 25 years the Maine Community Foundation has been partnering with donors and community groups to strengthen Maine through grants and scholarships. For more information, visit the foundation's website at www.mainecf.org or call toll-free 1-877-700-6800.

Top