Local woman wants to help
I am writing in response to the vast devastation that has struck our country, Hurricane Katrina. Watching the extreme situations unfold I feel compelled to do something to help. I am not in a situation to donate hundreds of dollars, but feel I am able to donate clothing, shoes, blankets, baby clothes, baby bottles, etc. I have been searching the Web for a place to send these items, but had no luck. Most sites I come across ask for a cash donation, but I feel most Americans are more able to donate belongings they no longer have use for.
I have a 5-month-old baby who is rapidly growing out of clothes, I have more baby bottles than I know what to do with that have never been opened. Now I hear of thousands of people who no longer have a pair of shoes, let alone a clean change of clothes; I, for one, know I have way to many shoes for one person and would be happy to send them to people who are in need.
I do feel that the cash donations are highly beneficial for the distribution of medicine, food, and water. Where food, water, and medicine are the first priority, in the weeks to come as people begin to try and rebuild their lives they will need these basic necessities. There are many basic necessities that these people no longer have that the everyday, middle-class person can supply.
I may not be able to donate a considerable amount of money but I can buy toothbrushes, deodorant and such, even if it only helps one household. I have also seen where blood donations are needed; again, I have not seen where any local blood drives are scheduled. I would be more than happy to give blood, because again that is “something I can do.”
So if the paper could keep the public informed of any collection areas or blood drives, or even an address to send items, I know I would be more than happy to collect from friends and family to see that one of the many shelters receive these items.
I don’t know if many people feel the way I feel, concerning the pressure to donate money. As gas prices increase, I know I need my extra money for the winter months when home heat will be higher than ever before. By donating “items” I feel I can contribute while still supplying for my family.
Jamie Hoff
Hopwood