Knights of Columbus hosts clothing drive

Hosting a baby shower isn't generally left up to the men, but the Knights of Columbus in Carson City are doing just that Saturday and Sunday for the second year in a row.

The Knights' baby shower - serves as a clothing drive, for the Community Pregnancy Center in Carson City.

The response to the group's first clothing drive was overwhelming.

"We delivered three truck loads of donations and a large check to the center," said Rick Fambrini, district 4 deputy.

"As a result, the Supreme Council of the Knights of Columbus has noted Council 4781 (Carson City) as one of the top 10 winners in the International Service Program Awards Contest for the 2003-2004 fraternal year for this type of activity. I'm not sure how it will play out, but it's a big thing."

"There are like 12,000 chapters (worldwide) and we made the top 10 for our work," said Dan Costella, program coordinator. "That's a big boost for us."

Costella said a pickup truck will be outside St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Community hall Saturday and Sunday for clothing to be donated. They will also collect baby food, diapers and other child-related items, except furniture.

"Someone wanted to donate a couch last year," he said. "But we just couldn't take it. We appreciate the thought, but it's baby items we're looking for and collecting. They don't have to attend Mass either, just drop their items at the pickup truck outside."

Costella said St. Ann's Parish in Dayton will also collect items for the drive.

For information on the Community Pregnancy Center, call 885-1700.

"The Community Pregnancy Center does pregnancy testing and also maintains a clothing room for needy folks," said Fambrini.

"We want everything baby or for baby's mom: maternity wear, formula, Pampers, clothes. And we'll also accept money. Some people couldn't donate clothing so they gave us money.

"The clothing room has items for maternity moms and children ranging from infant to 5 years old. Last year we were also able to deliver swing sets and some furniture that was gratefully accepted."

Contact Rhonda Costa-Landers at rcosta-landers @nevadaappeal.com.

If you go

What: Knights of Columbus Clothing Drive

When: Saturday and Sunday after Masses (4 p.m. Saturday; 8, 9:30 and 11:15 a.m. and 5 p.m. Sunday in Carson City; 4 p.m. Saturday, 9:30 a.m. Sunday in Dayton)

Where: St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Community, 3000 N. Lompa Lane; St. Ann's Parish, No. 3 Melanie Lane, Dayton

Needed: Clothing, food, diapers, other baby-related items for infants to toddlers, maternity wear

Call: 885-1700