History
Omaha’s Christ Child Society is part of a national movement begun in 1887 by Mary Virginia Merrick, a woman who began sewing clothes for poor children out of love for the Christ Child.
Though it has been more than a century since Miss Merrick founded Christ Child Society in Washington D.C., the organization’s commitment to provide services to the youth, elderly and families has expanded throughout the United States. The Omaha Chapter, founded in 1906 by Mrs. Stella Hamilton Stapleton, is one of 40 chapters. It started as an outgrowth of the Catholic sewing Mission School. The first work of the Omaha Chapter was volunteer in nature and limited in size. Activities included sewing classes, making layettes and conducting youth religion classes. Over the years, the pioneering and development of new programs transpired, which led to people becoming more involved with Christ Child. Through all the changes over the past 100 years, it is the devotion of the individuals we serve and our commitment to our roots that has made Christ Child the success that it is. By promoting spiritual welfare, enriching neighborhoods and life through educational and recreational facilities, and by encouraging participation in the activities of the larger community, Christ Child Society lives its mission.
Omaha’s Christ Child Society is part of a national movement begun in 1887 by Mary Virginia Merrick, a woman who began sewing clothes for poor children out of love for the Christ Child.
Though it has been more than a century since Miss Merrick founded Christ Child Society in Washington D.C., the organization’s commitment to provide services to the youth, elderly and families has expanded throughout the United States. The Omaha Chapter, founded in 1906 by Mrs. Stella Hamilton Stapleton, is one of 40 chapters. It started as an outgrowth of the Catholic sewing Mission School. The first work of the Omaha Chapter was volunteer in nature and limited in size. Activities included sewing classes, making layettes and conducting youth religion classes. Over the years, the pioneering and development of new programs transpired, which led to people becoming more involved with Christ Child. Through all the changes over the past 100 years, it is the devotion of the individuals we serve and our commitment to our roots that has made Christ Child the success that it is. By promoting spiritual welfare, enriching neighborhoods and life through educational and recreational facilities, and by encouraging participation in the activities of the larger community, Christ Child Society lives its mission.
