As winter fades and spring begins to bloom across New York City, we at Catholic Charities NY take a moment to reflect on the season that is ending—one filled with warmth, generosity, and transformation. Through the St. Nicholas Project, we ensured that thousands of New Yorkers in need were equipped to face the bitter cold with dignity, thanks to the kindness of our supporters, volunteers, and donors. 

What is the St. Nicholas Project? 

The St. Nicholas Project is a year-round initiative by Catholic Charities NY that provides winter essentials—coats, hats, gloves, and scarves—to vulnerable families across the city. More than just a clothing giveaway, it’s a reminder that no one faces hardship alone. 

At the heart of the initiative is St. Nicholas Shopping Day, where volunteers, including the Catholic Charities Junior Board, gather at Old Navy stores to shop for families in need. This past winter, they helped over 1,000 families, bringing warmth to thousands across New York City. 

Funded entirely through charitable efforts—including the Junior Board, the TCS New York City Marathon, and online donations—the St. Nicholas Project ensures that financial hardship doesn’t mean facing winter unprotected. 

At Old Navy’s 34th Street store, volunteers worked together to provide carefully selected winter items. Tony Berry, Executive Chair of the Junior Board, emphasized that the project offers more than just clothing: 

“The Saint Nicholas Project provides winter essentials, but it also offers year-round support. At a time when many struggle to make ends meet, this initiative makes a real difference.” 

With rising economic challenges, Berry stressed the importance of community-driven efforts: 

We’re making sure families don’t have to choose between staying warm and covering other essential expenses.

The Junior Board played a critical role, raising over $100,000 this year to fully fund the initiative and extend warmth to as many families as possible. 

Monsignor Kevin Sullivan, Executive Director of Catholic Charities NY, reflected on the deeper meaning of the event: 

“We’re making sure that Santa comes to families who might not otherwise receive gifts. This event is about more than shopping—it’s about ensuring that our neighbors in need feel seen, valued, and cared for during the coldest months of the year.” 

With the Junior Board leading the way, this long-running event ensures that the spirit of generosity lives on: 

“The fact that this is spearheaded by our Junior Board means that this spirit of generosity is moving on to a new generation. That’s absolutely critical because we think this needs to be done forever and ever.” 

Voices of Gratitude: St. Nicholas Recipients Share Their Stories 

The impact of the St. Nicholas Project extends far beyond warm clothing. It instills hope, relieves financial burdens, and empowers families to embrace their future with confidence.

At Alianza, families expressed their deep gratitude for the support they received. Claribel Días Sánchez, a mother, thanked the Catholic Charities Junior Board for their generosity in helping her and her family stay warm this winter. Dori Félix, another recipient, shared how meaningful it was to receive these gifts alongside her loved ones, offering blessings and holiday wishes to those who made it possible. Johanna, the mother of a young child, was especially appreciative, knowing that her family would be able to face the cold months ahead with warmth and comfort. 

A Family’s Journey from Guinea to New York 

For Saran and her family from Guinea, transitioning to the harsh winters of New York was a significant challenge. The St. Nicholas Winter Clothes Giveaway became a lifeline:

Receiving winter clothing from Catholic Charities has been a game-changer for my family.

“Coming from Guinea, where the temperature is always warm, adjusting to the cold winter months here has been difficult. But thanks to this generous program, we’ve been able to stay warm and cozy.”

Beyond clothing, Catholic Charities provided crucial support for their integration into life in the U.S.—helping them secure social services, job training, and even employment. One particularly heartwarming moment was when Saran’s sister, Rouguiatou, wore a donated jacket to a job interview—and got the job!

“The jacket was more than just a piece of clothing; it was a symbol of dignity and confidence,” Saran shared. “The job has made a huge difference in our lives. It’s given my sister a sense of purpose and independence, and we are forever grateful.”

Looking Ahead 

As winter gives way to spring, the warmth of the St. Nicholas Project continues to resonate in the lives of those it has touched. But the need remains. Catholic Charities of New York is committed to ensuring that no neighbor is left without support, no matter the season. 

Through acts of generosity—big and small—our community makes a lasting difference. Whether by donating, volunteering, or spreading the word, each contribution helps provide warmth, dignity, and hope to families in need. 

You can be part of this mission. Discover how you can support the St. Nicholas Project and help transform lives by visiting CatholicCharitiesNY.org/st-nicholas-project/. 

Together, with every coat, every gift, and every act of kindness, we can continue to bring comfort and care to those who need it most.