Sitio Clothing Ministry has relocated to St. Teresa of Calcutta Church in the Fairdale neighborhood. The ministry, which provides clothing, diapers, baby wipes, household items, car seats, and furniture at no cost to those in need, was started by Linda Gottbrath nearly two decades ago in her basement. It had been situated at St. John Vianney Church since 2015.

“It’s a blessing to help people out here,” said Gottbrath about the ministry's new location. Sitio operates with the assistance of several volunteers, some of whom have been involved since its inception.

Deacon Lucio Caruso, pastoral administrator of St. Teresa, believes the ministry will benefit the parish. He noted that the space now occupied by Sitio was previously unused and cluttered.

“I don’t like leaving any bit of space in building or land wasted,” he stated, emphasizing that it can be used to serve others. Volunteers from Sitio cleaned and painted the room and converted a breezeway into a reception area for clients.

“I want the parish to feel we’re here for a purpose,” Caruso added. “Parish means extended neighborhood. We’re to care for everyone, not just parishioners.”

Caruso pointed out an increasing need for such a ministry in Fairdale due to many young families and low-income seniors living there.

He explained that “sitio” is Latin for “I thirst.” “That thirst continues in everybody who is in need,” he said.

Sitio operates Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.