As I am sure you are aware, migrants from the Southern Border have been arriving in Northern cities in large numbers over the past few months. In New York City, it is estimated that more than 18,000 have arrived since April and many more are expected. In most cases, the migrants arrive with nothing but the clothes on their backs. While many agencies, including Catholic Charities, are working to provide clothing, food, and shelter, there is a real and present danger that the support system will become overwhelmed as we move into the cold winter months.
Recently, Fr. Joseph Cavoto, OFM, ChM, a chaplain in the New York City Area, contacted the Connecticut – SWN Area and requested their help in his parishes’ effort to support migrants presenting themselves at the St. Francis Breadline. In response, members of the Connecticut Area filled and delivered 50 backpacks for children with essential items: hooded sweatshirts, socks, underwear, hats, gloves, water bottles, blankets, toiletries, and in some cases shoes. Unfortunately, much more is needed and we would like to solicit your help during Investiture Weekend.
Those attending the New Member and New Chaplain Orientation Meeting and the Annual Business Meeting are requested to bring one or two new articles of warm weather clothing or winter shoes for adults. Given that hats, scarves, and gloves seem to be in good supply, we kindly request your donated items be adult size (L, M, S) sweaters, sweatshirts, sweatpants, warm socks, or long underwear. Winter shoes are especially needed.
Tables will be setup outside of the meeting rooms, where volunteers will be on hand to collect the donated goods and ensure they get delivered to those working with Fr. Cavoto.
If you are unable to drop off the requested items in person, Fr. Cavoto would greatly appreciate having the items sent directly to him at the address below.
Church of Saint Francis Attn: Fr. Joseph Cavoto, OFM, ChM
135 W 31st Street
New York, NY 10001
For ease of ordering items from Amazon, below are links for hooded sweatshirts, sweatpants, and boots.
Hooded Sweatshirts: CLICK HERE
Sweatpants: CLICK HERE
Croc Winter Boots: CLICK HERE
