Outreach

We are collecting items and monetary donations for our Christmas gift bags for the unhoused.

Over the last month, our last coat/sleeping bag, and many donations of blankets, sleeping bags, coats, etc. have gone to 2 separate encampments for people struggling with housing along with a whole host of other issues that go with that.  On Dec. 9 with your donations of items, money, prayers, and time, we will put together as many Christmas bags of essentials for these people as possible. IF YOU CAN’T BE THERE, BUT WANT TO CONTRIBUTE, PLEASE HAVE ITEMS TO CHURCH BY THAT MORNING OR ASK ONE OF US TO HELP COLLECT FROM YOUR PLACE. 

Needed items for the gift bags (we will make “male”/”female”): Hand Sanitizer, Hand lotion, tooth brushes, tooth paste, wipes (to sponge down with when soap/water is not an option), tampons, hygiene pads, hair brushes, nail clippers, easy open individual meals, protein bars/snacks, Reusable water bottles, Lip balms, Small packages of tissues, small dish rags/dish soap, laundry “sheets” (Look like dryer sheets, but actually are laundry soap) for when such is available, Flashlights with batteries, hand warmers, socks, WARM gloves (not the super thin ones), candy, and gum. No time to shop? Feel free to place an offering in the offering basket and mark it for the “Christmas bags”.

You know that Nativity Scene many of us put out as a charming view of the birth of our Savior? Everyone there, the Holy Family, the Shepherds, and the Wise Men--they were all homeless too!

Ongoing needs: Nonperishable food items for the St. Paul weekly food bank, blankets, sleeping bags, towels, warm winter gear etc. for the homeless shelters.