Day of Service Sign Up 2024

Our mission is to allow as many people as possible to participate in community service. Many projects are able to be completed at home, allowing for different schedules and health concerns. We welcome everyone to join us on January 13th to work on projects together, and to drop off any completed projects, at the First Congregational Church of Reading.
Our annual Day of Service brings together the entire Reading community of all ages and backgrounds and includes a variety of projects, activities, and off-site to work with partnering organizations. 

Scroll through this list and select any activities you are interested in. You'll hear from a volunteer who will give you more information about the project, materials, how to drop-off, etc. Questions? Email info@ReadingCares.org
 
 
Please select all that apply.
Service projects to complete at home or onsite on January 13th
Please select all that apply.

Knit or crochet warm hats for adults and children (no preemies this year). Patterns are available. Yarn will be provided (or bring your own) and some knitting needles will be available for use on January 13th. Please bring any hats you have competed at home to the gathering on January 13th.

Please select all that apply.
Use a no-sew pattern to create cozy blankets to be distributed through Project Linus. Patterns and instructions are available. Some fleece material will be available for use on January 13th.
Please select all that apply.
Sew simple dresses for girls around the world. Instructions, material, and sewing machines will be available on January 13th. If you like to hand sew, some dresses will also need buttons, trim, etc. Kits with instructions and basic material are available now to sew at home. Contact Joann at jo2.take@gmail.com. Completed dresses can be dropped off at First Congregational Church, Monday-Thursday 9am-1pm until the end of January.
On Site January 13th at the Gathering
Please select all that apply.
Decorate bookmarks with the themes of inspiration and courage. Bookmarks will be distributed through the Reading Public Library.
Please select all that apply.
Make and bag meals for Lazarus House in Lawrence. Please bring hat, apron (and scrunchie if needed.) Other supplies will be provided. Donations to offset costs of food are appreciated.
Please select all that apply.
Learn about young role models that are carrying on the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. There will be a Power Point Presentation for viewing. Be a part of the discussion with fellow participants or write your thoughts down that will be included on the MLK Day Ceremony at RMHS. Discussion topic "Are you inspired by these role models?  If so, how do they inspire you?"
Please select all that apply.
Decorate cards which will be used by the Pantry to thank their generous donors. All materials will be provided.
Remote Only Projects
Please select all that apply.
Help sort and put away donations 11:30am to 1pm at Old South Church. Limited to 5 volunteers.
Please select all that apply.
Help move and pack household items at the Mission of Deeds warehouse in Reading.
Please select all that apply.
Stop by Stop and Shop and pick up a list of most-needed items for the Pantry.  Drop your pantry items off on your way out, and we will deliver them to the Pantry for you.  Hours 9:30am - 12:00noon.
Please select all that apply.
Decorate and pack paper bags with snacks for DPW, Fire, Police and Pantry workers. Instructions will be provided. Bring your completed packs in on January 13th or subsequent drop-off dates.
Collections
Please select all that apply.

The Department of Children and Families (DCF) would specifically appreciate donations of new children’s underwear for foster children. Socks and pajamas are also options.


Bring your donation to the gathering on January 13th or to the First Congregational Church during office hours - Monday - Thursday 9:00-1:00 through January.

Description

Our mission is to allow as many people as possible to participate in community service. Many projects are able to be completed at home, allowing for different schedules and health concerns. We welcome everyone to join us on January 13th to work on projects together, and to drop off any completed projects, at the First Congregational Church of Reading.