Mr. McFeely launches ‘Mister Rogers’ sweater drive at museum

DuPage Children’s Museum will sponsor a sweater and clothing drive as a tribute to Fred Rogers and his example of being a caring neighbor.

The Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood Sweater Drive will begin Sunday, Jan. 27, and run through Feb. 28 at the museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville.

To help launch the community service project, actor David Newell, who played Speedy Delivery man Mr. McFeely on the popular children’s television series “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” will make a special appearance at the museum from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, when visitors will be able to get photos and autographs.

During the sweater drive, members of the community are asked to donate new or gently worn sweaters, as well as other clothing items. Receptacles to collect the sweaters will be stationed at the museum. Local charitable organizations DuPage PADS and Hesed House will be the beneficiaries of all clothing donations.

“This is such a fitting tribute to Fred Rogers and ‘Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,’” said Sue Broad, CEO and president of DuPage Children’s Museum. “We are so pleased to help evoke that ‘caring neighbor’ feeling through this sweater drive, and we’re honored to have Mr. McFeely join us to help spread these timeless values to our community members.”

Museum membership or paid admission is required. An exclusive members-only presentation with Mr. McFeely and some of the original “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” puppets is from 11 a.m. to noon Sunday at Washington Junior High School, 201 N. Washington St., next to the museum.

Mr. McFeely’s visit also marks the culmination of How People Make Things, a traveling exhibit at the museum inspired by the factory tour segments from “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.”

Created by Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, How People Make Things tells the story of how everyday objects are made by linking familiar childhood objects to a process of manufacturing that combines people, ideas and technology. The traveling exhibit closes Sunday.

For details about the sweater drive and Mr. McFeely’s visit, see dupagechildrens.org.