Each year, the Collaborative Social Justice Committee facilitiates a Lenten Almsgiving Collection in support of our sister parish in Sierra Leone, West Africa as part of our International Initiative. All money collected directly benefits Our Lady Star of the Sea, which is supremely dedicated to the corporal and spiritual works of mercy.

Our Lady Star of the Sea, has a preschool and elementary school that serves a large number of children; a vocational school for adults where many women come to be trained in skills such as dress-making, hair-dressing, jewelry-making,  amd weaving that they can use to support and empower their families; a health clinic that serves EVERYONE in their community, including mothers in the delivery of their babies, those dealing with infections, as well as infant and elder care; and a vibrant Catholic Church community.

Additionally, there are times throughout the year where we support them with specific items in order to serve them in specific need. See below for one such collection.

Goods Collection to Support our Sister Parish
                       Weekends of July 20/21  and 27/28 at both churches

This summer, we are taking up a material goods collection for items that cannot easily be purchased locally in-country. The goods will help stock the parish health clinic, provide school supplies for students in the pre-school and elementary schools, and provide sewing supplies for the vocational school. Below are suggested items that are in need.

First Aid Supplies: Antibiotic Ointment, Antiseptic solution or towelettes, Anesthetic spray (Bactine) or lotion (Calamine), Adhesive tape, Adhesive bandages in assorted sizes, Elastic wrap bandages, Large triangular bandages, Non-adhesive wound pads/ sterile gauze pads, Disposable gloves (non-latex) in assorted sizes, Hydrogen peroxide, Hand sanitizer, Cotton balls and cotton swabs, Instant cold packs

Toiletries: Deodorant, Toothpaste, Floss, Toothbrushes, Hand sanitizer, Soaps and shampoos, Tissues and Toilet paper

Over-the-counter Medications: Antacids, Anti-diarrhea medication, such as Imodium or Pepto-Bismol, Oral antihistamines, such as Benadryl, Cough and cold medications, Hydrocortisone cream, Laxatives, Pain relievers, such as aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others)

School Supplies: Backpacks, Pens and pencils, Crayons, Glue Sticks, Notebooks

Sewing Supplies: All-purpose thread, Fabric, New sewing machines (please contact the parish office if you are interested in donating a sewing machine)