As families, friends and communities continue to struggle to make ends meet, one Tiverton, Rhode Island mom is doing her part to provide for those in need.

"People really need an extra helping hand and support right now," Jess Mercier said.

Her roadside stand, Haven Homestead, offers food, toiletries and more for her neighbors.

How One TikTok Idea Sparked a Local Movement

Mercier's inspiration came from social media. "There's a woman on TikTok that always pops up, and she stocks a blessing box in her community, and they do it themselves with donations from the community as well," Mercier said.

READ MORE: Tiverton Mom Turns Hobby Into Roadside Sourdough Stand

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Community Generosity Fills the Shelves

A call to action was all that was needed to get the ball rolling. "I did the first post in our Buy Nothing group, and in 48 hours, the stand was full," she said.

After just one week, Mercier and her husband were touched to see the community rally together to stock the shelves.

READ MORE: Tiverton Food Pantry Helps Students in Need

Jess Mercier via Facebook
Jess Mercier via Facebook
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"People are showing up with bags and bags of bags from Market Basket of items," Mercier said. "One woman was kind enough to bring baskets to organize things and put that on the stand as well."

Haven Homestead’s Location and Mission

Located near the Fall River line at 204 Stafford Road, Haven Homestead is open to all.

READ MORE: "Kindness Kitchen" Feeds the Hungry in Fall River

"Two different communities that we're helping have come together and really supported us," Mercier said. "I've received people from New Bedford wanting to drive out, and just a really positive reaction. So we're trying to help as many people as we can."

Helping Without Barriers

If you're in need of assistance or you'd like to donate, stop by Haven Homestead. "No questions asked, come any time of day," she said.

Photos from Lake Martin, Louisiana

Gallery Credit: Dave Steel

United Way of Greater New Bedford Hunger Heroes Food Drive 2021

Hundreds of donors dropped off food at the Buttonwood Park Warming House, assisting the United Way in helping reach its goal of 1,000 Thanksgiving food baskets for needy families.

Gallery Credit: Tim Weisberg

Kennedy Donovan Center Plants Playhouse For Donations

The Kennedy Donovan Center places this adorable ice cream themed playhouse at the Carousel in Fall River to raise awareness and funds to continue to help Massachusetts families.

Gallery Credit: Jackson Scott

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