By William Tauro

On Saturday April 18, 2015 the 3rd annual fundraiser for the benefit of the Jeanne Jugan Home (Little Sisters of the Poor) on Highland Avenue was held. Alderman Bob McWatters and Bill Roche who are both members of their Advisory Committee co-chaired the event.
Jeanne Jugan, a Saint for the elderly poor and is the foundress and first Little Sister of the Poor. She was beatified by Pope John Paul II on October 3, 1982 and canonized by Pope Benedict XVI on October 11, 2009.
Jeanne Jugan gave herself entirely to God and the elderly poor. As our aging population continues to grow and dignity at the end of life is increasingly threatened, Jeanne Jugan offers herself as a friend and patron of the elderly. Jeanne is a friend of God and a hero for the poor.

The Little Sisters have two major fundraisers each year, their annual Christmas bazaar which is the biggest and best in the greater Boston area, and this annual dinner. This year Cardinal Sean O’Mally was the guest saying Mass and giving the Invocation before dinner.

Many volunteers helped with the event and thanks to the sponsors all proceeds raised went directly to enhancing the quality of life for the residents of the home.
A special thanks to the SHS culinary arts students that volunteered their time to serve the food and clean up after the event.
Bill Roche introduced the Cardinal to a loud ovation and Bill and Bob McWatters did a great job emceeing the event.

Former Somerville Mayor Gene Brune, Alderman Bill White, Tom Murphy, Tom Bent and Sal Casparrello were also invited guest in attendance at the event.