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The Women with Children program at Misericordia University will sell donated designer clothing on Thursday as a fundraiser in the lobby of the Anderson Sports and Health Center. Seen here are, from front left, Terry Eckert, advisory board; Amy Lahart, Dean of Students; Laura Angeline, resident life; second row: Theresa Doughty, coordinator; Katherine Pohlidal, director.

DALLAS — Misericordia University will open its doors on Thursday to sell designer clothing in an effort to benefit its Ruth Matthews Bourger Women with Children program’s emergency fund.

Held at the Anderson Sports and Health Center, over 6,000 articles of new clothing — including athletic wear, hoodies, sweaters, cardigans, dresses, business attire and casual clothing — will be available at a discount. The clothing has been donated anonymously.

The Women with Children’s program was established in 2000 to provide housing and support for academically qualified, single mothers and their children at two houses owned by the university. The program, one of eight in the country, prepares graduates for employment in diverse fields.

So far, 51 women have participated in the innovative program, which has a capacity for 10 families.

Although priority is given to women from local counties, students from as far away as Utah have participated.

“We feel that both the sale and the program are consistent with the mission of the Sisters of Mercy, providing education for women struggling with poverty in the short and long term,” said program director Katherine Pohlidal.

The program has a retention rate of 80 percent, and 100 percent of those who have completed the program have become fully employed.

Children participating in the program are able to enroll in the campus’ daycare program or attend school within the Dallas School District.

Already, some participants’ children are beginning their own college careers, Pohlidal said.

“It’s been a successful and life-changing experience for all involved.”

In addition to addressing economic needs of its participants, it also has provided subsidized child care, financial aid and a support system preparing participants for long term success.

For more information about the WWC program, please log on to www.misericordia.edu/wwc or call Pohlidal at 570-674-6728.