As part of its mission, WHAV provides information and resources targeting health and wellness, food insecurity, after-school programs, education and housing to residents of Greater Haverhill and the Merrimack Valley. To submit news of events, fundraising appeals and other announcements, click on the image.
A cabaret show, “Almost Better Than Broadway,” takes place later this week in support of MishStrong, a charity created in remembrance of Michelle “Mish” Benedetti, a Methuen resident and social worker who died in 2019 at age 51 after a battling cancer.
Proceeds from “Almost Better Than Broadway,” benefit, in part, St. Ann’s Home and School in Methuen, which currently houses 150 permanent residents and educates 120-plus students.
St. Ann’s Director of Development John Rice says, “The support from MishStrong makes a real difference in the lives of these kids. It makes them feel loved and cared for.”
Money raised will be used toward items such as iPads, backpacks and school supplies, Rice says, adding, “We also use some of that funding from MishStrong for things like day trips to a water park or amusement parks—things that help normalize these kids’ lives, most of whom do not have families of their own.”
The cabaret takes place Friday and Saturday, March 8 and 9, with doors opening at 6 p.m., at Andover’s Old Town Hall, 20 Main St., Andover. Tickets are $40 per person and available online at mishstrong.org.
Former Methuen resident Michelle Benedetti died in 2019 at age 51. (Courtesy photograph.)
“MishStrong was founded by a group of people that wanted to turn a sense of loss into positive impact in the community Michelle served. We are humbled that we are able to keep Michelle’s spirit present,” said her brother Mark DeLuca, who led the nonprofit’s creation in 2020.
Board member and event coordinator Michael Therriault added the charity also hosts an array of events that include 5K and 10K road races and “Disco Bowling.”
“Michelle was full of life and always caring,” says Therriault. “Her job as a social worker was not easy, but she was always doing extra. We are glad to continue her work.”