The Arkansas Educational Television Network and more than 30 libraries across the state will sponsor the Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood Sweater Drive Nov. 1-30.
The event is “a tribute to Fred Rogers and his example of being a caring neighbor,” according to a news release.
The community is asked to donate new or gently worn sweaters at participating libraries or AETN headquarters at Conway. Sweaters will be distributed by various local charities and the Arkansas Salvation Army.
Southeast Arkansas participating libraries include: Carlisle Public Library, Eudora Branch Library, McGehee Branch Library, Monticello Branch Library, Star City Branch Library and Warren Branch Library.
“Fred Rogers’ dedication to ensuring that children and their families had the educational and emotional tools needed to grow and prosper made him an icon for both public media and public service,” AETN Executive Director Courtney Pledger said. “AETN is proud to carry on his legacy through the Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood Sweater Drive by working with outstanding library and charity partners across the state.”
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
This is the fifth year for the statewide sweater drive. In 2017, 34 libraries participated and collected more than 3,000 sweaters.
“The Salvation Army is excited to again partner with AETN on this project that will bring warmth and comfort to our neighbors in need this holiday season,” Captain Jay Spalding of the Salvation Army Central Arkansas Area Command, said in the news release.
“To help set the tone for a ‘comfortable’ visit with his young viewers, Rogers put on a sweater and changed into sneakers as a way to help children settle in for ‘Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.’ All of Rogers’ original sweaters were knitted by his mother, Nancy McFeely Rogers. Each year, she knitted a dozen sweaters and gave them to family and close friends at Christmas,” according to the release.
Details: aetn.org/sweaterdrive.