St. Patrick’s schedules annual clothing giveaway

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Special to The PREVIEW

It is said you can’t get something for nothing and, in our capitalistic society, that is generally true.

But, at St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church, you will find a unique exception. Every year, the women of the church sponsor a clothing giveaway.

Yes, it is what it says it is … a giveaway. No charge. No monetary expectations at all. In fact, they will even give you a bag to stuff full of free clothes and tell you to go back for more. Free.

Bring the family. Bring the kids. Take clothes to relatives. Take all you need.

This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 19, 8 a.m.-noon at St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church, 225 S. Pagosa Blvd.

“It’s kind of like the loaves and fishes,” said Fr. Doug Neel, rector of St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church. “We have never run out of clothes, even when over 300 people show up at the door. We have never asked anyone for a dime of money, for proof of need, or recommendations from social services. We open the doors to everyone. It is an honor system. We assume people take what they need and leave the rest for others, and we have always had more clothes than we can give away. We work on the basis of ‘providibum dominum … God provides.’”

Those wishing to donate to the giveaway may bring clothes, sweaters, winter jackets, shoes, purses, children’s toys, etc. to Airport Storage on Piedra Road on Saturday mornings prior to the event.

“People are very generous,” said Fr. Doug. “We literally give away tons of clothes. What’s in it for us? Nothing but the satisfaction of knowing that there are many children and adults in Archuleta County who will have a warm coat, sturdy shoes, a nice sweater, or relatively fashionable clothes to wear thanks to our efforts. And that’s enough. When all is said and done, we have lots of very tired volunteers with big smiles on their faces. Doing the Lord’s work is truly better than gold.”