Pride Stores Raise $7,500 for 41st Brightside Angel Campaign

SPRINGFIELD — The Brightside Angel Campaign is a holiday tradition for the many folks who look forward to purchasing and displaying the familiar Brightside angel decorations. All proceeds from the annual campaign, now in its 41st year, directly benefit those served by the programs and services of Brightside for Families and Children.

As in years past, the Brightside paper angels were available in all 31 Pride Stores throughout the local area, and the effort raised $7,500.

“We’re always happy to help Brightside through this angel campaign, as it aligns with our goal to help children and families in need. In fact, the Brightside Angel Campaign has become an annual tradition at Pride,” said Bob Bolduc, CEO of Pride Stores.

Deborah Bitsoli, president of Mercy Medical Center and Trinity Health Of New England Medical Group, added that “we are grateful to Pride Stores for their commitment to the services offered by Brightside for Families and Children. Each year, Brightside serves more than 700 children, their siblings, and their families in their homes and schools with in-home and virtual counseling and family support. This important work is at the heart of our mission.”

Brightside for Families and Children was among the first ministries established by the Sisters of Providence when they began their healing ministry in 1873. Although initially serving as an orphanage, Brightside has adapted its program and service offerings over the years to meet the changing needs of the community’s most vulnerable children, adolescents, and their families. The annual Brightside Angel Campaign has always garnered a great deal of support from community members, many of whom purchase an angel ornament every year to add to their collection.

“Although Brightside for Families and Children has undergone a number of changes over the years, the program is alive and well and remains a vital part of our community, serving more than 700 children and families every year,” said Sr. Mary Caritas, vice president of the Sisters of Providence. “The mission at Brightside is as relevant today as it was in the beginning. The children, adolescents, and families who come to Brightside often face tremendous difficulties in their everyday lives. Thanks to efforts like the Brightside Angel Campaign, we are able to offer programs and services designed to help them navigate these obstacles and ultimately reach their full potential.”