Every holiday season, St. Pius X offers a heartfelt opportunity for families to give back to the community through the Dresden Elementary Christmas Project. This cherished tradition works hand-in-hand with the festive Holiday Marketplace, organized by the Mothers’ Club, which also plays a key role in coordinating the outreach efforts for our neighborhood community.

Each year, St. Pius families receive an email inviting them to volunteer and support children and families at Dresden Elementary. Those who choose to participate are directed to a SignUpGenius link created by the event chairs, Katie Sklar (Nate ’28) and Sarah Schlenck (Charlotte ’28), which lists a variety of ways to contribute.

Families can choose to sponsor a child or an entire family, purchase Walmart gift cards (typically $100 for parents), donate bags of food, make cozy blankets, or volunteer their time to help collect, organize, and distribute gifts. Volunteers also assist with translating Spanish to English and even provide transportation for families who do not have access to a vehicle.

When a family decides to “adopt” a child or household, they receive a personalized wish list from Dresden Elementary. These lists often include toys, warm sweaters, jackets, pants, books, and a $25 Walmart gift card. Items that bring comfort and joy during the holiday season.

After shopping and preparing gifts, food bags, or gift cards, donations are dropped off at the Young Center on Friday, December 12. Mothers’ Club volunteers then sort everything by family number and organize the labeled bags. On Saturday, December 13th, families selected by Dresden Elementary’s administration arrive at St. Pius to pick up their gifts. For those who volunteer, witnessing the gratitude and excitement of these families is truly rewarding, it’s a reminder of the profound impact generosity can have.

The Dresden Elementary Christmas Project is more than an outreach program; it’s a celebration of compassion and community. By sponsoring a child or family, donating items, or volunteering, St. Pius families help brighten the holidays for children who might otherwise go without. This initiative encourages all of us to pause and appreciate what we have while recognizing the needs of those around us.