The Misericordia Coat Drive: A Huge Success!
by Barb Quaintance
Misericordia asked. Families and staff responded.
Misericordia asked families and staff to donate coats, hats, gloves and warm clothes for the many migrant families who have come to Chicago. The response was overwhelming. Beginning just before Thanksgiving, hundreds of items of clothing were donated; in fact, an entire semi-trailer was filled to the brim.
Kathy Morris of the Ministry department spearheaded the big task of sorting the clothing and organizing the donations for community organizations. Residents from The Village and CILAs helped with the clothing sorting. Three days a week, for about ninety minutes each day, 6-8 residents sorted and folded the clothing, made sure mittens and gloves had matches, and checked the coats to be sure the zippers worked. It was a great experience for the residents and they took great pride in helping our new migrant neighbors. Clothing was donated to the City of Chicago, Rogers Park Refugee Program, Ignatian Mission Center and Something Good in Englewood. Because of the overwhelming response, Misericordia cannot accept any more clothing - but the sorting continues!
It is gratifying to see Misericordia’s values being realized by families, staff and residents. Thanks to all who helped!
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