This year is the 10th anniversary of Project Pajamas, founded by our very own President Ari. The goal of the program is to provide a brand new pair of pajamas to any child within our county who is homeless, in transition or some other form of need. The kids who receive the pajamas have parents who are struggling. Sometimes they are struggling with criminal justice issues, addiction, homelessness, mental illness or often a combination of those things. Whatever the parent challenges, it is not the kids fault. When they arrive at a homeless shelter or similar place seeking help, Project Pajamas provides them with a brand new pair of pajamas, even if they stay just one night. Perhaps that new pair of PJs will make the child feel a little bit warmer or at least know that people care.

Some of the recipients of pajamas over the years include the Walnut Avenue Family and Women’s Center; the Rebele Family Homeless Shelter; the Pajaro Valley Homeless Shelter; the Salvation Army; Valley Churches United; the Sienna House; the Jesus, Mary and Joseph home; Monarch Services; The Boys and Girls Club; Barrios Unidos; Mountain Community Resources; Haven of Hope; Family Preservation Court; CASA; Jacob’s Heart; Partnership for Children (Children’s Hospice and Palliative Care); Above the Line; Encompass – Community Bridges;- La Manzana; New Life Community Center and children in foster care.
 
To participate, buy a new pair of PJS and leave the tags on. Some of the kids have never had anything new and the tags show that no one else has worn them. Bring to Rotary or drop off at Twin Lakes church.

To participate on the Volunteer Make a Difference Day, Oct 19, come to Twin Lakes Church by 9 a.m. to package PJs. Bring a box of gallon size ziploc baggies and a sharpie pen. Volunteers will package the PJs up by size and gender, then distribute to the community groups who have asked for them.