A Holiday Tradition Wrapped in Love

Thousands of children will be sleeping a little warmer this holiday season thanks to EJ’s PJs, the Centereach-based nonprofit preparing for its 16th annual pajama drive with a festive celebration December 3.

The “This Little Light of Mine Pajama Extravaganza” will run from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Connect Church, 31 Horseblock Road, Centereach, featuring Santa Claus, holiday activities, music, giveaways, refreshments and surprises for the entire family. Admission is free.

Founder Patricia Poggi, who started the organization with her three sons, Edward, Jeremy and Patrick, has watched the effort blossom from a handful of donations into a charitable movement reaching thousands.

“To see how far this has grown is incredibly humbling,” Poggi said. “What started on my front porch with 34 pairs has turned into thousands of children feeling comfort, dignity, and warmth.”

The organization distributed more than 7,000 pairs during its previous holiday campaign, reaching families through shelters, community organizations, emergency services and outreach programs across Long Island and beyond.

“A pair of pajamas may seem small, but it brings peace, comfort, and joy,” Poggi explained. “For many families, it means knowing someone cares.”

This year's extravaganza, also featuring KerboomKidz and Brookhaven Town Clerk Kevin LaValle, encourages guests to arrive in their favorite pajamas and bring brand-new sleepwear in all sizes for distribution to children and teens facing hardship.

Poggi credits the organization's success to volunteers, businesses and residents who have embraced its mission.

“I truly believe we are all EJ’s PJs,” she said. “This is a community mission.”

For Poggi, the mission remains beautifully simple. “One pair of pajamas can make a difference,” she said.

Donations and additional information are available at ejspjs.org.