Sunday, February 17th, is the Reverse Collection for Sacred  Heart. You will be asked to take a slip from the second offering basket instead of putting money in. These slips are asking you to bring products that Sacred Heart distributes every day to their many customers. Diapers,
infant formula, tube socks, and pop-top cans are always in demand.  

There are so many homeless in Santa Clara County. Contrary to some people’s opinion, not all of these people are drug addicts or alcohol abusers. It is surprising how many of these are women and children. Many of them live in cars, taking turns sleeping at night. That is beyond our comprehension, isn’t it? Our children have a quiet, warm place to do homework, play their games, and eat good meals.  Of course, there are also adults who live under the bridges, beside creeks, and in deserted buildings. Most of them have no place to cook and exist on non-cooking bags comprised of pop-top cans, produce, and the lunches of a meat and cheese sandwich, fruit, and a few cookies, which Sacred Heart provides daily. Of course, the customers are also informed of the various kitchens that provide cooked meals. The tube socks are a real bonus! Since they walk constantly–must keep moving and not loiter—a pair of dry, clean socks makes their days much easier.

The young families in our parish know how expensive diapers and formula can ruin a family budget. Mothers resort to paper towels from public restrooms in order to reuse diapers. Sacred Heart can only give five diapers twice a month to babies under 3. You know that is not enough to last for 14 days! This way, many people can be helped at least a little.

Please remember these needs when you are shopping this week. The donations will be taken to Sacred Heart on March 9th. This is a great almsgiving opportunity this Lent!