During Great Lent we are called upon to fast not only for reasons of self-control and prayer, but also for reasons of love: to deny ourselves something that we may share what we have saved with someone else who is in need. This Lent, our parish family will be collecting items for the Peter Maurin Center. Located just 5 minutes north of St. Elia at 1096 N. Main St., the Center serves unsheltered and marginalized individuals and families in the Greater Akron area by offering prepared meals, warm clothing and friendship at their facilities and in the community.

Look for the bin located near the entrance of church, and drop off your items as you come in each week. If you are not currently attending services, contact Aaron Gray to pick up your donations. Below is a list of ideas of items that are currently in need at the Center:

• Toilet paper
• Toiletries and personal hygiene items
• Bottled water
• Aluminum foil and plastic wrap
• Plastic zip bags: sandwich, quart, or gallon
• Cleaning supplies
• One-day Metro bus passes (these cost $2.50 each and can be purchased at the Metro Station and frequently at Giant Eagle stores)

Thank you for doing your part to help those in need!