VFW starts clothing drive

By Travis Fischer, tkfischer@charlescitypress.com

The Charles City VFW is collecting – and giving – as part of an ongoing clothing drive.

Looking for a community service project to start up, the VFW recently decided to initiate a clothing drive to distribute clothes for people in the community.

“We always see people needing clothes,” said Patrick Lumley.

Volunteers at the VFW will be on hand from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays through May and June, ready to both accept donations of clothing or help people find clothing items they need.

“So far we’ve had amazing, amazing results,” said Ellen DeBeir. “We’re having a really fun time doing it, too.”

From baby clothes to adult sizes, the VFW has amassed a collection of gently used clothing to be distributed.

“The community has really rallied behind us and helped us out,” said Lumley.

The clothing drive will accept new or lightly used clothing items (undergarments must be new), along with coats and other winter items, children’s sports gear and bicycles.

Drop-offs can be made during the regular hours every Tuesday and Thursday, with the exception of the last week in May. Otherwise, arrangements can be made for a volunteer to pick up items by calling either Patrick Lumley (641-220-1573) or Denny Hall (641-220-1955).

Those interested in volunteering can also call Hall or Lumley.

For those in need of clothing, the VFW volunteers said they are glad to help people find what they need, asking for nothing but a freewill donation.

“They can take whatever they want,” said Bonnie Pitz. “Just use it.”