In the community
This article was originally published in January 2016
Spread coziness in the cold months
The KCTS Mr. Rogers’ Sweater Drive is aimed at keeping those in need, especially children, warm through the winter months — and chances are you have something around the house that will be appreciated. “All of us, at some time or other, need help,” said Fred Rogers. “Whether we’re giving or receiving a sweater, each one of us has something valuable to bring to this world. That’s one of the things that connects us as neighbors — in our way, everyone is a giver and receiver.”
All of Fred Rogers’ original sweaters for television were made by his mother, who knitted a dozen sweaters each year to give as Christmas presents to family and close friends. To help set a comfortable tone for his young viewers, Fred Rogers would put on a sweater and change into sneakers as a way to help children settle in for the program; he kept that same entrance for more than 30 years. Today, his familiar red cardigan is on display at the Smithsonian Institute.
Fred Rogers began the Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood Sweater Drive in 1997, six years before his death. His spirit of caring lives on today through the generosity he inspires. Today, we’re proud to help share in his legacy of comfort and neighbors helping neighbors; the 2014 drive brought in nearly 8,000 sweaters and coats. You’ll find donation bins at all 10 PCC stores, so clean out your closet of gently used sweaters and bring them on down! We’ll pass them along to local organizations like Wellspring Family Services. The greatest need is for children’s items, but all new or gently used winter wear will be accepted for donation. Find locations.