FALLS – Armed with fabric, thread, and a shared desire to help others, faithful from Corpus Christi Parish are living out one of the Corporal Works of Mercy in a unique way.

Through the parish’s “Dress a Girl Around the World” ministry, volunteers have created more than 300 handmade dresses for girls in need across the globe since the effort began last summer.

On May 16, members of the ministry gathered in the hall of the Church of the Holy Redeemer, a worship site of Corpus Christi Parish, to prepare dress kits and supplies that volunteers take home to transform into colorful dresses for underprivileged girls.

The ministry is part of the international “Dress a Girl Around the World” organization, which has distributed more than two million dresses in 90 countries.

Parishioner Michelle Cassetori started the local effort after she learned about the program while attending church during a vacation in California.

“I thought people around here would like to do this,” Cassetori said.

With the blessing of Monsignor John Sempa, the ministry quickly took root, attracting approximately 15 volunteers. While some members sew the dresses, others cut fabric, prepare kits, organize materials, and assist in other ways.

“There are a lot of girls that have never had a dress or don’t have much to wear,” Cassetori said. “This is a very simple, easy way to give kids some dignity.”

For parishioner Lisa Falzone, the ministry offers an opportunity to combine fellowship with service.

“We are literally clothing the naked,” she said. “These dresses are going out to many countries to young girls who are without the basics. To put on a pretty dress, I think uplifts them and makes them feel a little more special.”

Mary Supey, who helps assemble dress kits, said the project allows volunteers to make a difference in the lives of children they may never meet.

“We have so much here, and your heart breaks for people who don’t have,” she said. “It’s a nice thing to be together and laugh while helping people who need it.”

Every dress created by the ministry is hand-delivered through the organization’s network of volunteers, ensuring it reaches girls in need. For Cassetori, the ministry’s continued growth is a reminder of faith put into action.

“It is truly the hand of God working through us,” she said.