ELIZABETHTOWN — Contributions continue to come on for the Bladen Journal’s third annual “Roger’s Wish” effort to collect blankets and sleeping bags for the area’s homeless and needy.
The project began on Thursday, Oct. 1, and the items wlil be made available to the public in early November on a date to be announced.
So far, a total of 21 blankets have been received — the latest contribution was made by Jeffery Bryan of White Oak, who brought two new blankets to the Bladen Journal office on Monday.
In the fall of 2013, the Bladen Journal collected about 115 items and distributed them during a giveaway in early November. In 2014, that number grew to about 175 items and even more individuals and families were assisted.
This year, the Bladen Journal staff is hoping to eclipse the 200 mark and expand the number of folks the effort can help.
Over the first two years, items have been donated by a wide variety of sources — from individuals to businesses to churches to youth groups to school groups and others. Blankets have been received from as far away as Florida and New York.
The “Roger’s Wish” collection drive will be held through Friday, Oct. 30, this year, though donations will be accepted on Monday, Nov. 2, if arrangements are made ahead of time by calling the Bladen Journal at 910-862-4163.
Donations can be dropped off at the Bladen Journal office in downtown Elizabethtown between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Anyone with questions or needing directions can call the Bladen Journal staff at 910-862-4163.
W. Curt Vincent is the GM/editor for the Bladen Journal.