Los Gatos' St. Mary’s School Collects Coats for Catholic Charities

St. Mary’s School third-graders collected more than 317 coats for Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County this winter, school officials said this week.

Led by teacher Erika Freitas, the students planned, coordinated and promoted the drive through articles in the St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception parish bulletin, posters on campus, signage in the morning and afternoon car lines, and by word of mouth, said school spokeswoman Sue Jamieson.

Students also staffed the coat-collection bins, sorted, and counted the coats, Jamieson added.

"It is rewarding for us to know that others will be a little warmer this winter and to see how the St. Mary’s community responded so graciously to the drive," Freitas said. "The students' positive attitude, excitement, and commitment to the project were a wonderful way to make a difference in the lives of others."

Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County has been serving individuals and families for more than 50 years. The nonprofit organization is affiliated with the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Jose.