Saint Mary’s colleagues gave generously to the Annual Holiday Stocking Drive this year. What began many years ago as an initiative to fill stockings for those in need, has evolved into a larger scale effort with donation volumes so plentiful organizers are able to fill full sized bags. Donations such as shampoo, bodywash, deodorant, as well as hats and gloves are stuffed into nearly 250 bags. The bags are given to several local organizations that serve the most vulnerable in our community including the Hospitality Center for homeless individuals in the Waterbury area and the St. Vincent de Paul Shelter of Greater Waterbury.
In addition, more than fifty stuffed bags were given to the Waterbury Police Department for their homeless outreach event. The event includes community providers such as Waterbury’s Overdose Response Team, HIV/STI Prevention teams, and more. The providers host tables at the event handing out information and giveaways. The Waterbury Police Department also goes out to different locations within the community to reach the homeless giving them bags and other comfort items during the holiday season.