Mugshots Partying in PJs for a Good Cause

Putting the kids to bed was never so easy... or so philanthropic. Thursday night, throw the kids in their PJs, trek down to Mugshots, and donate some items for underprivileged children in the Manayunk coffeehouse's charity event.

From , Mugshots hosts a PJ party, benefiting the Pajama Program—a charity group devoted to providing books and sleeping attire for kids.

Mugshots shift supervisor and event organizer Emily McNeil wanted to put together something involving her passion—kids.

"I thought an idea like this would be a great way to get kids involved. I think it's a good way for kids to think about giving back," she said.

Attendees are invited to dress up in pajamas—McNeil's sporting flannels—but also donate new PJs or books to the Pajama Program. Though it doesn't seem like a huge offering, McNeil said it makes kids understand some people are less fortunate.

"To tell kids that others don't have PJs—or don't even know what they are—it will hit a really good chord," she said.

Founded 10 years ago, the Pajama Program essentially wants to provide every child the opportunity to a bedtime story and a comfortable night's rest. According to its website, the  has provided 550,000 pajamas and 250,000 books to kids nationwide.

McNeil's family annually supports a charity. So when it came to time to chose one this year, she extend the offer to her Mugshots kin and the event took off.

"We're a close-knit staff, and everyone is very supportive of the things we want to do," she said. "We're community based." 

In Manayunk, the coffee shop will offer kid-friendly (but healthy) food options—like PB&J, cupcakes, apple cider and hot cocoa—and will present children's musical group The Plants and another local kid band.

People may donate the PJs and/or books, and also have the option to make financial donations—$10 will provide a book and pajama set to a needy kid.

For more information, click .