St. Louis clergy expand winter drive to include toiletries for refugees
The St. Louis Rabbinical and Cantorial Association is adding household essentials to its annual coat collection starting November 1 to support families at the International Institute of St. Louis.
By Lucy Lefebvre ·
St. Louis Jewish congregations are changing what they collect for the winter. For the first time in the nine-year history of the Winter Donation Drive, organizers are asking for toiletries and household necessities alongside winter clothing.
The St. Louis Rabbinical and Cantorial Association (STLRCA) will launch the ninth annual drive on November 1, 2026. The collection will run through February 28, 2027. The goods will go to immigrants and refugees served by the International Institute of St. Louis.
The International Institute assists newcomers in establishing lives in the region. Many arrive with few personal belongings. Recent cuts to benefits for immigrants and refugees have increased financial strain on these families, according to organizers.
While winter coats remain a key part of the drive, everyday items are in higher demand this year. The most needed goods are adult diapers, shampoo, baby wipes, deodorant, and laundry detergent. Organizers are also accepting winter coats, socks, hats, and gloves for men, women, and children of all ages.
Elise Krug, the STLRCA administrator, stated that the project aligns with the group's goal of serving the wider St. Louis community. “The St. Louis Rabbinical and Cantorial Association is honored to coordinate this event,” Krug said. “This project fits perfectly with our mission to bring together clergy from all denominations of Judaism in order to serve the broader St. Louis community.”
The STLRCA unites Conservative, Orthodox, Reconstructionist, Reform, and Renewal clergy. The group supports the Jewish community and regional outreach efforts. Donations are open to the public, not just members of the participating congregations.
Residents can drop off items at Congregation Shaare Emeth, United Hebrew Congregation, and Central Reform Congregation. Items may also be delivered directly to the International Institute at 3401 Arsenal St. Volunteers are needed to transport donations from the congregations to the institute. Interested individuals can contact Elise Krug at [email protected].
Source: St. Louis Jewish Light
