Solanus Casey Coat Drive
This Thanksgiving, Advent, and Christmas season, we must not forget our less fortunate brothers and sisters. We are called to complete corporate works of mercy, and “alms to the poor is one of the chief witnesses to fraternal charity: it is also a work of justice pleasing to God.” We are at the start of the colder months in Cleveland, and it is not uncommon for temperatures to dip below zero. There are many who are in need of coats, gloves, and other warm winter clothing items.
“He who has two coats, let him share with him who has none and he who has food must do likewise. But give for alms those things which are within; and behold, everything is clean for you. If a brother or sister is ill-clad and in lack of daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what does it profit?”
Padre Pio Academy students will be collecting lightly worn coats, sweat shirts, hoodies, as well as new gloves and hats, for the poor, needy and homeless. The donations will be given to The Solanus Casey Project: a pro-life group that distributes clothing to folks in the neighborhood while praying the Rosary in front of Preterm on Fridays between 2pm and 4:30 pm.
The Solanus Casey Project has been in existence for over five years and was started by members of our Padre Pio family. The effort was founded on the belief that “Love will end abortion” and this is best exemplified through prayer, fasting and alms giving. “Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21).
Volunteers distribute hot pizzas on a cold day.
Please clean out the closet, find those items the kids (or you) have outgrown, and drop the goods off at Mrs. Coyne's kindergarten class from November 13th - January 10th. We also welcome donations of new winter gear like hats, gloves, scarves - as well as (lower value) gift cards. Adult hoodies in the L through XXL sizes are very popular.
Rosaries, Miraculous Medals and snack bags are also distributed. Over the years, many minor miracles have been witnessed on the sidewalks including numerous moms choosing life and countless friendships being established with folks in the neighborhood. Last January, the Solanus Casey Project even had a baby shower for a young mom who walked out of PreTerm, asked “will you help me?” and Choose Life.