In March 2024, St. Leo parishioner Owen Carragher (a Malta House board member) and his wife Pam invited the St. Leo clergy to visit Malta House and attend the Mark Schultz benefit concert. That introduction has since blossomed into a bountiful relationship with the Stamford-based parish and its parishioners. 

Fr. Javier Nieva, DCJM, notes that attending and sharing news about Malta House events with St. Leo parishioners “has become a tradition” - which was made more visible during the parish’s first baby-bottle drive, which was held between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day 2025.

“Malta House's mission of hope and dignity is a blessing that benefits us all in this turbulent world,” explains Fr. Javier. 

While delivering proceeds from that first baby-bottle drive, parishioners Diane Mannello and Lisa Harris inquired into other ways St. Leo could support Malta House. This led to regular donations of gift bags, gift cards, diapers (because Malta House goes through them!) and other essentials. 

Taking their support a step further, Diane and Lisa have also generously given to Malta House with their time and talent. For example, they have both volunteered during our twice-monthly diaper distribution community outreach program. And early this summer, when Lisa learned that plans to grow a vegetable garden in the Malta House backyard had been sidelined by a volunteer’s injury, she showed up one weekend to plant a garden (which, as of mid-October, was still producing an astounding abundance of tomatoes and peppers). 

Here’s some first-person perspective from St. Leo volunteers Diane and Lisa on their involvement with Malta House.

Diane Mannello
What about Malta House resonated with you? I have always felt that supporting young mothers can profoundly impact their overall well-being, their children’s development, and society as a whole. By providing access to essential resources such as education, childcare, and mental health services, we empower young mothers to achieve their goals and create nurturing environments for their children. I hold Malta House’s mission close to my heart. 

When my children attended Greenwich Catholic School in elementary school, we hosted fundraising events each year specifically designed to support young mothers in our community. These events not only raised crucial funds but also fostered a sense of solidarity and awareness among parents and students alike. Witnessing the community come together to support those in need reinforced my belief in the importance of providing young mothers with the resources and assistance they need in order to live independently.  When I joined St. Leo Parish, I was thrilled to continue my support of  the Malta House!

Please provide any fun facts about yourself. I grew up in New York City and moved to Stamford, CT when I got married and started a family. My son is currently a junior at Fairfield Prep, and my daughter  is a senior at Holy Child. Both of my children attended Greenwich Catholic School, where I was deeply involved in the school community. 

My commitment extended beyond the school, as I actively participated in various causes, including Malta House. Living my life by the principle of Luke 12:48—"To whom much is given, much is required"—has always been important to me. Helping and assisting those in need is a value I hold dear. Additionally, a fun fact that most people don’t know is that I am half Brazilian; I speak Portuguese and Spanish fluently.

Lisa Harris
How did you become involved with Malta House? I became aware of Malta House through a work colleague, Dan Krenicki, who is on the board. He thought I would be interested because for many years I have organized Christmas gifts for children associated with DCF (Department for Children and Families) at our work location, and am passionate about helping children in many different ways. Malta House was an extension of helping children where the help would begin earlier and also have an opportunity to support the mothers in their parenting journey. 

The mission of Malta House spoke to me creating a great foundation for the new mothers and babies, but since I have become more involved I have  learned of all the support that is provided to the mothers while they are in the house as well as the support for when they leave. It's truly amazing.

When the organizers of the Holiday Wish Tree at St Leo were looking to expand to benefit other organizations a few years ago I suggested Malta House, and St Leo began to support the post-graduate group of mothers for Christmas. The St Leo parishioners are incredibly generous in any effort, but especially of the holiday drive. We look forward to providing the same support this year.

Please provide any fun facts about yourself. I enjoy gardening and am a fan of the Liverpool football/soccer team. I enjoy working with children, especially in the areas of literacy. I am also a single mother who adopted a girl from Russia 25 years ago.

St. Leo Parish will be honored at our 2025 Fall Fling Volunteer & Employee Appreciation Dinner on Oct. 16, 2025. You can purchase tickets here>.