For more than 30 years, James and Carolyn Maffucci served the Bronx’s less fortunate through offering affordable or no charge treatments as well as providing substantial financial and personal support to various local organizations.
But as times change, so must their schedule.
“At this point in our lives we’ve decided to go part time to focus more on our ministries in the community,” Carolyn said.
Well known for their endless donations that range from Christmas gifts for struggling families to outreach for at risk youth, doctor James and nurse Carolyn said it’s their deepest joy to be able to give back to the Bronx.
“God has put so many wonderful people in our path to help others,” Carolyn said referring to the family, friends and patients who have given their time over the years to help make such a substantial difference for local youth.
Carolyn credits her personal successes to special friend, confidant and mentor Pastor Jerry Scott.
Remembering her years as a troubled teen, headed down a dark path, she shared, “I ended up living on the streets, kind of here and there, wherever I could lay my head.”
At a mere 15 years old, she said she thought her life was over -until she met Pastor Scott.
While most people would have labeled her local hangout, comprised of 60 to 70 rebellious teens in the 1970’s, as uncharted and dangerous territory, Scott approached them fearlessly, ready to offer hope.
“They all fell in love with him,” she said in amazement. “Not many people could break the bond of those teens.”
Believing in his mission and willing to walk toward a better future, Carolyn, along with three other girls, knocked on the pastor’s door one night at midnight. He welcomed them in and Carolyn’s life changed.
To this day, Carolyn said it’s her and James’ mission to rescue others the way she was saved years before.
In addition to their extensive work with Sr. Miriam Thomas, a teacher and director of social services at St. Athanasius Church in Longwood, the couple is a major financial backer for the Scott House, a facility established by Pastor Scott for abused children either waiting to be adopted or reunited with their families.
“There’s no reason for children to be abused or killed when there are so many safe havens for them,” Carolyn explained.
Putting their words to action, in October of 2007, the Maffucci’s welcomed Joey, 3; Kayla, 11; and the children’s mom into their home.
While the mom suffered from many ailments, and is currently receiving treatment upstate, the kids have since moved to the Scott House.
“The children are still there and doing phenomenal,” Carolyn said smiling brightly.
Excitement recently turned to sorrow when the Maffucci’s learned of the pastor’s devastating news – a rare form of cancer would soon claim his life.
While Carolyn said she would deeply mourn the loss of this legendary man, she will forever remember his passion to give. So though they’re limiting their hours at the 2460 Mickle Avenue office, Carolyn assured they would never stray from their ministries.
“I want people to know our work has not ended,” she said. “My husband and I will continually be there to support the children. We’ll never stop.”
For more information on the Scott House, or to donate or volunteer, please contact Carolyn at (718) 652-5949.
