Ugly Quilt Weekend a unique way to help homeless

As fall moves on and temperatures cool, we often think of things to do within the comforts of home. But for some people, homelessness and the realty of living in the cold are all too real.

Vic and Therese Pierce talked about a way to help those seeking warmth in the 1990s. Therese, who died six years ago, told her husband -- after seeing a man in St. Louis carry a bedroll on his back while riding a bicycle -- they should start something in this area to help the homeless. That conversation birthed the St. Vincent de Paul Parish annual Ugly Quilt Weekend.

Recently about 140 volunteers gathered at St. Vincent de Paul Center in Cape Girardeau to help make ugly quilts. The reason for the "ugly" reference is that they do not worry about matching pieces of fabric. It's about sewing together quilts to help others stay warm. In a story by Southeast Missourian reporter Emily Priddy, organizer Kathy Berkbigler said they hoped to finish 250 bedrolls over the two-day period.

Feeding the hungry. Clothing the homeless. Providing warmth for those without means. These are things we see regularly in this area. Many people are working on various tasks to help those in need. The Ugly Quilts Weekend is another example of this kindness, and we thank those who play a roll in it.