Chicago: With the aim of nurturing the Christian values of sharing, love, and compassion among children, the CML Unit of St. Mary’s Knanaya Catholic Parish, Chicago, launched a clothing collection initiative titled ‘Threads of Love’ on Sunday, November 8.

Following the Sunday Masses, CML Executive Committee members Riya Parampett, Philip Nedumthuruthy Puthenpurayil, and Milania Parell explained the objectives and procedures of the initiative to the parishioners.

Inspired by the Bible verse Luke 3:11, “Anyone who has two tunics should share with the one who has none,” the project is being conducted in collaboration with Cradles to Crayons, a nonprofit organization that provides clothing and essential items to children experiencing homelessness and economic hardship.

The collection includes new or gently used summer and winter clothing suitable for children from three months of age up to adult medium size. Special emphasis is being given to winter clothing such as sweaters, jackets, hats, gloves, and scarves. Donations will be accepted until November 25. A designated collection box has been placed in the church hallway.

A special feature of this initiative is that each child is encouraged to personally select an item of clothing from their own wardrobe to donate to a child in need. Along with the clothing, each donation will include a personal note conveying a message of love and care to the recipient.

Through this initiative, CML aims to instill the value of sharing in the hearts of children and encourage them to put Christian values into practice.

The CML office-bearers invited all children and families of the parish to actively participate in this charitable initiative, embracing the Christian message: “If we have two, let us share one with someone who has none.”