Through the generosity of the parishioners of both parishes, the Mission of outreach, and genuine kindness to others, has been overwhelming.

Poinsettia plants---Parishioners, the Port Catholic Student council, and a Girl Scout Troop delivered 158 poinsettia plants to local Catholics who are homebound or in a nursing home . That is an increase of nearly 40 since Easter and 100 since last Christmas. They loved the visits and the cards from the children as well. Some parishioners went to great lengths to make the Advent visits—going back several times! The cash donations received from parishioners, for the plants was absolutely tremendous.

Baby Bottle Update---The final total on the baby bottle project was $8,310.98. More bottles trickled in after the last total. It is difficult to find words to thank you for your extreme generosity. Some parishioners crocheted and knitted wonderful little layette items. There were beautiful, handmade blankets put by the cradle, too, along with purchased items. Four large bags of baby items along with the baby bottles, went to the Pregnancy Help Center of Milwaukee, for Respect Life Month.

St. Nick toys—Thank you for your generous support of the St. Nick’s gifts to Clintwood Virginia, it was a huge success. Christine Ramirez wants to thank the “guardian angels” from Port Washington for providing over 600 plus individual gifts for needy children in the Appalachian Mountains. The need was even greater this year than last, so your donations were needed more than ever. That was a lot of great shopping done by parishioners and so many bright eyes for those children in need.

School Supplies for the Food Pantry—Over 1400 school items were donated by parishioners to the Food Pantry at the beginning of the school year.

It is quite apparent that the parishioners of St. Mary's and St. Peter's do recognize that “Jesus is the reason for the season” But, what is so inspiring, is the giving that is done all year long!

Thank you so very much, and many blessings to all of you, in the New Year! The Human Concerns Committee