Local church collecting items for hurricane victims

A local church is collecting items to help those trying to return to normalcy after the 150-plus mile-per-hour winds of Hurricane Michael devastated the Florida Panhandle.

First Pentecostal Church of Jennings (FPC) is pairing with Hope Corps Disaster Relief Team Unit 102 next week to collect items to be distributed to those affected by the storm.

Items needed include water, sports drinks, nonperishable food items, protein bars, toilet paper, paper towels, plates and cups, disposable utensils, personal hygiene products, baby supplies, diapers, baby wipes, formula, cleaning supplies, trash bags, pet food, tarps and batteries for small electronics.

Anyone wanting to donate items or funds inperson can stop by the church, located at 1715 North State Street, from 12-7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 22.

Last Monday, the group set up at the church to collect items and was able to pack a trailer to house the donations. Organizer Aimee Pinell said that due to the overwhelming response from the community, the group decided to hold another collection event to make an even greater impact.

“We appreciate your response and donations in this time of need,” she said. “We will be making a run to Florida soon to drop off all the items we receive. Thanks to everyone, this has been such a blessing.”

The Hope Corps Disaster Relief Team represents a local chapter of an international nonprofit organization committed to meeting humanitarian needs around the world. The team will be delivering food items and supplies to various staging areas, churches and individual families throughout the storm ravished area of Florida.

“Hurricane Michael is another opportunity for the local chapter to meet the needs of the millions who have suffered enormous loss in the past weeks,” Pinell said.

The Jennings Hope Corps Alumni Chapter has been involved in hurricane disaster relief efforts in Texas, Louisiana and North Carolina.

Those who cannot visit the church next week can make a charitable donation by visiting www.hopecorps.net or www.disasterreliefhc2.com, and clicking on the “Donate Now” icon.