BOSTON — It was “Christmas in July” at St. Anthony Shrine here, when members collected back-to-school supplies for children in need who attend the shrine’s KIDS program. Shrine members picked bulbs off a Christmas tree that listed which supplies to purchase.
“The response was tremendous,” according to John Maganzini, OFM, vicar. The children in the KIDS program had access to these donated items to help them meet their back-to-school needs. “July may have ended, but it was certainly Christmas to those children who depended on the donated school supplies to be successful in school,” said John.
The KIDS program provides working poor families with a hot and nutritious meal every third Sunday of the month, according to Gary Convertino, director of the shrine’s human resources, human services department.
One of the shrine’s most widely-known programs, according to David Convertino, OFM, director of St. Anthony Shrine, KIDS offers educational and family oriented events throughout the year, and includes birthday and achievement celebrations. According to the shrine’s Web site, the program gives families an opportunity to gather, socialize and enjoy a healthy meal while creating a community and educational atmosphere among those who attend
This month, the KIDS program held “Being Clean with Your Friend — Mr. Hygiene”