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Giving to those in need
Elementary school collects socks for the homeless
Sylvia L. White The Catholic Sun
December 6, 2007
GLENDALE — St. Louis the King School students collected more than 1,000 pairs of socks Nov. 15 at their annual sock drive.
The students also collected some sweatshirts, T-shirts and blankets during the drive, held in honor of principal’s day. The school will give the clothing to the homeless.
“Thinking about when you’re cold, what gets cold first? Hands and feet,” said principal Jane Daigle. She said the project helps the children remember the less fortunate.
“The children become aware that as the temperatures change, it becomes more difficult for the homeless,” Daigle said. “The number of socks they collect — that’s a small percentage of the people that are homeless.”
Families began collecting socks in early November. Daigle said that unlike some wealthier students, many St. Louis the King students have a concept of need.
“Our kids come from families that go without,” she said. “They get what they need, but not always what they want, so they’re very generous.”
Julie Schaffer, director of stewardship and development at St. Louis the King Parish and School, echoed Daigle’s sentiments.
“What stands out about us is that many of our families are very much in need and they pass on what they have,” she said. “They’re always willing to give to those who need more.”
Schaffer has been a parishioner for about seven years. She said 85 percent of the students at their school receive tuition assistance.
Judi Messer, a registered nurse who used to work for Healthcare for the Homeless, helps the homeless in the Valley with her husband. The Holy Cross parishioners bring the items from the drive to those in need.
“Mostly I listen and that is what people want the most. I actually do less nursing and more listening. Socks are a big draw. Having socks is a really good icebreaker,” she said. “It’s very satisfying to know I am doing something to make a difference.”
Messer, who was a parishioner at St. Louis the King for 28 years, said the of socks would last about 6 months.
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