Catholic parish communities throughout the Albany Diocese are continuing and expanding efforts to serve those in need. Here are some service and fundraising projects taking place this August.
No Kid Sleeps on the Floor in Our Town!
On Saturday, August 1, 2026, St. Michael the Archangel Church, Troy & St. Jude’s, Wynantskill join forces with the Mechanicville chapter of “Sleep in Heavenly Peace,” a national non-profit organization committed to making beds for children in need. The bed building begins at 9am at St. Michael the Archangel Church, 175 Williams Road in Troy.
This is the 5th Annual Bed Building Day for the two parishes. The effort brings people together in service for others by ensuring no child sleeps on the floor within the community.
Food Pantries Fund Drive at Our Lady Queen of Peace/St. Margaret of Cortona FESTA
Our Lady Queen of Peace in Rotterdam and St. Margaret of Cortona in Rotterdam Junction are embarking on a ministry to expand community involvement and support local food pantries.
A booth location at this year’s FESTA 2026 (Aug 14-16 in the Our Lady Queen of Peace parking lot, 210 Princetown Road) will accept monetary donations on behalf of this effort.
The parishes hope that the generosity of all who attend FESTA will help local food pantries and efforts to combat food insecurity in the area.
St. Luke’s, Schenectady Sponsors Community Give-Away Day
Join St. Luke’s Parish and St. Luke’s Daily Bread Food Pantry for their 6th annual Community Giveaway Day. The community event takes place 2-4:30 p.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026, at St. Luke’s, 1235 State Street, Schenectady (in the Furman Street Parking Lot).
“It’s a day focused on giving generously and honoring the dignity of those who receive,” said church pastor Fr. Dominic Isopo.
Donated items including household goods, children’s toys and clothing for men, women and children will be distributed during the event. Several local organizations and service agencies, including Safe Inc. and Birthright, will be on hand to share information about the resources they provide for the community.
“It offers the parish and food pantry an opportunity to share what we have and bless our neighbors who may be struggling. The response from parishioners is overwhelming.”
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