The Army of Good is excellent beyond words. Even in difficult times, they always come through. Last week, Sue asked for dress patterns, and today, well over 100 different sets of patterns arrived at Bishop Gibbons High School in Schenectady, New York. I know more are on the way.

Sue says she thinks she will have enough patterns right now to accommodate the flood of interest in clothes and dress-making in her fantastic art program.

But not for long.

“We could use stuffing and holiday fabrics if people would like; we are shifting gears right now to make toys to give to refugees and other kids whose families can’t afford to buy them,” Sue told me. “Then after Christmas, we’ll focus again on making clothes and using the patterns.”

She said she and the students are immensely grateful for the patterns they are eager to use for their clothes and families.

Some will be used right away for Christmas presents for their families.

If you have any questions for Sue, you can e-mail her at [email protected].

I appreciate the Army Of Good so much; people are excellent and generous given a chance, even when few people have a lot of money right now. Thank you once again. Our program is stronger than ever, even as people struggle with rising prices.

For the moment, and as you’ve noticed, I’m shifting the focus of the Army of Good to Wish Lists and blog campaigns for specific needs. I’m trying to take the heat off of small savings accounts. I’m keeping the Mansion and Refugee funds going to deal with emergencies in the family –  when there are no winter clothes, hats, blankets, or toiletries. These items are in demand every year.

It turns out we are giving more than ever to Mansion and Bishop Gibbons in more direct ways.

I want to keep that higher than $160 as the cold weather approaches.

If you want to send Sue stuffing and Christmas fabrics, please send them to Sue Silverstein, Art Program, Bishop Gibbons High School, 2600 Albany Street, Schenectady, New York,  12304.

If you care to support the Refugee/Mansion Fund, you can donate via Paypal, [email protected], or Venmo, Jon-Katz@Jon-Katz-13. Or by check, Mansion/Refugee Fund, P.O. Box 205, Cambridge, N.Y., 12816. Small donations are as precious as large ones. They add up.

Note: The bookcase project does not involve Sue and the art program; that’s the domain of the English Department.