This month, the Tottenville High School Neumann Club participated in the Pajama Program. This program delivers warm sleepwear and nurturing books to children in need. These children live in orphanages and shelters, waiting to be adopted. Many have been abused or abandoned by their parents.

Deborah Heindel from the Tree House Shelter said, “Our children really need what you have to offer. Many times our children come to us with the clothes on their backs and a teddy bear from the police, and have to sleep in hand-me-downs.”

The Neumann Club organized and held a Pajama Drive in our school. Boxes were placed in all English classrooms on the second floor. Announcements were made every morning by Mr. Tuminaro and flyers were put up around the school, encouraging students to donate. The club collected pajamas and books for infants to the age of seventeen. Pajamas had to be brand new and books had to be in good condition. After several weeks of collecting, the club received several large boxes full of pajamas and books.

“I think we had a good turnout. Thank you to everyone who donated!” said Minjung Koo, Co-President of the Neumann Club.

Diana Harbolt of Citizens Caring for Children said, “Pajamas are essential to self-esteem and a feeling of security for foster children who have been abused and/or neglected. Many of the children we serve have never had their own pair of new pajamas or new books to read.”

If you’re interested in donating to this organization, please contact the Pajama Program Headquarters at (212) 716-9757 or visit www.pajamaprogram.org. Remember, it’s never too late to help a child in need!