The Knights of Columbus Council 10205 at St. Thomas More Catholic Parish in Centennial once again sprang into action to bring warmth to our ministries. Their efforts to collect coats and essential items took on new significance in anticipation of severe weather conditions impacting more people than ever.
This initiative started in 2009 when the Knights of Columbus launched a program dedicated to distributing winter clothing, particularly coats, to families. Over the years, the program has successfully provided thousands of winter clothing items to families.
As migrants continue to arrive at the Samaritan House doors and across the Front Range, it is essential to have these items to give. This year, the coat drive was pushed up to meet the needs of the migrant crisis facing Denver.
“We have seen a lot of folks without as much as a t-shirt and shorts on and that’s all they have. To be able to offer the gift of warmth has been crucial. Many of these people haven’t experienced cold weather of any kind,” shared Mary Larsen, Director of Kitchen and Warehouse Operations at Samaritan House.
St. Thomas More parishioners opened their closets and heart and brought in bags and boxes of donations every week throughout September and October and Knights of Columbus volunteers jumped in to organize and prepare for distribution.
In the most recent drive, a staggering 900 items were donated to Catholic Charities., . These contributions provide much-needed support to those we serve, as well as our staff as we extend the hand of Jesus Christ to every individual who comes to our doors, offering warmth and comfort during the harsh winter conditions.
“It has been an incredible pleasure working alongside the Knights of Columbus, and St. Thomas More in this remarkable effort. We rely on them every year and deeply appreciate the generosity of their parishioners, fully aware that their ongoing dedication provides immeasurable warmth and compassion during the cold winter months,” shared Mark Hahn Director of Volunteer and Community Engagement. “I am continually awed by the substantial number of high-quality coats, sweaters, and other essential winter items collected through St. Thomas More.”