Holiday pajama party helps kids in need

Mugshots CoffeeHouse & Cafe hosted a Christmas-themed pajama party on Thursday night to collect pajamas and books for underprivileged children. 

 

Each year, Emily McNeil and her family pick a cause to support for the holidays.

This year, they chose The Pajama Program, a charity that collects books and pajamas for children in need.

As shift supervisor, barista and chef at Mugshots CoffeHouse & Cafe, McNeil decided to rally her co-workers and organize a community charity event to support the cause.

“It’s the simplest thing that we all take advantage of in a sense,” McNeil said. “This is just a really easy way to give back.”

A small crowd braved the snow and frigid weather Thursday night to show off their sleepwear at the Christmas in your PJs event at Mugshots off Main St. in Manayunk.

The event featured live performances by Mark Rybaltowski, Andrew Clotworthy and The Plants. Guests of all ages were invited to drop off books and/or pajamas into two large donation bins stationed at the snack table.

McNeil said the event was a way to get kids involved in charity.

“It’s important for them to know it’s not just about receiving, it’s about giving,” McNeil said. “So, to give them a chance to see others giving to someone their age with something as simple as pajamas is a really good start.”

McNeil said the donated items will be collected and distributed in Philadelphia and Baltimore.

To learn more about the charity, visit The Pajama Program.