Social Outreach

---

Social Outreach projects are an outward expression of the desire of Saint Mary’s to model our Christian values by giving back to our local community.

Holiday Tree

We have found meaningful social outreach in our partnership with Metropolitan Ministries. We collect designated in-kind gifts on a weekly basis. The highlight of this partnership is the Holiday Tree, our Christmas gift-giving ministry. Parishioners and school parents purchased more than 450 new toys, 12 gift cards, and made numerous online donations for the Tree, an annual ministry of Metropolitan Ministries, and a long-standing tradition of St. Mary's parish. Families who are experiencing economic insecurity will be able to "shop" for gifts for their families, an act that preserves the dignity of families in need.
​
They were pleased to do this, and indeed they owe it to them; for if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material things. Romans 15:27

Students help prepare the ornaments for the Holiday Tree. Each card has a child's age and instructions on how to return the gift.

---

Sock Sunday

Parishioners collect socks for the homeless each winter. Socks, even in Florida, keep feet warm and prevent infection and disease. More than 100 socks were taken to Faith Café, a feeding and social ministry started by St. Mary's and six other partner churches. It is located at 1340 N Clearview Ave and serves a hot meal at noon six days a week.

Fr. Richard blessing the donation of socks.

Lindsey Hardee and son Baker head up the ministry.

Parents and adults pick a card from the tree.

The tree surrounded by gifts of love.

Sock for the homeless, necessary even in Florida.