DUNMORE, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — From newborn outfits to winter coats, Saint Joseph’s Center in Dunmore held its Winter Children’s Clothing Drive, furthering its mission to provide essential clothing that fosters confidence and comfort while meeting a basic need for families across Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Following Martin Luther King Jr. Day and his lifelong commitment to service and embracing the theme of making it a “day on, not a day off,” the event focused on giving back to the community.

The Saint Joseph’s Center Baby and Children’s Pantry collected new and gently used winter clothing for boys and girls, as community members participated in a drive-through donation while volunteers helped sort each item.

Sister Maryalice Jacquinot, President and CEO of Saint Joseph’s Center, said there’s a deeper meaning behind the drive.

“With today being Martin Luther King Day, we decided it was a great opportunity to follow his example, care of community. And we have our wonderful baby and children’s pantry serving the community all year, but especially at winter, we’re mindful of needing more clothing. And a lot of people have been home all weekend. Snowy days. Great opportunity to clean out, crowded drawers and closets and also do a little shopping,” said Jacquinot.

Emphasizing that the center’s work extends far beyond today’s drive and continues year-round, Sister Jacquinot said volunteers stepped up in full force, working together to sort through the donated clothing.

“We have a lot of volunteers throughout the year. So typically, 45 volunteers throughout the week. But for this day, we’ve of course invited some extra volunteers. And we’re grateful for those hands. So as things come in, they’re sorting the clothing, by the season, by the size, by gender. Maybe putting little outfits together and organizing so that we’re staying ahead of it. And we have some high school students. We have some students from Marywood University,” said Jacquinot.

By noon, Sister Jacquinot said the center received more than 50 donations, adding that many community members chose to spend their day off giving back to others.

“So, we’ve had lots of people come through, I think more than 60 donations so far, have come through. Some people bring one bag. Some people have a trunk full. So, we’re grateful for all of it,” said Jacquinot.

“And I think people are feeling good about having a day off, but doing something good. So instead of a day off, a day on,” said Jacquinot.

In 2025, Saint Joseph’s Center reported that its Baby and Children’s Pantry served and distributed 845 food/formula, 3,124 visits, 116,220 diapers, and 164,487 items.