A donation drive is underway in Bay County to help the victims of Irma in Central and South Florida.
The donation drive through the Bay County Sheriff’s office started Wednesday, and so far, spokeswoman Ruth Corley says it’s been a hit.
“We have stacks and stacks of buckets and mops, paper towels, and toilet paper…food items,” she said. “We have a ton of food items by noon the very first day, we have already collected quite a bit. But, the trailer out in front is huge and we want to be able to pack it.”
Some suggested food items people can bring include canned foods and fruits, jars of peanut butter and jelly, and juice boxes.
“Baby wipes, diapers, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, wet wipes, garbage bags, flashlights, batteries, good old fashioned bleach does great,” Corley added. Those people have big needs now. Those people need to be able to take care of themselves and their families.”
Corley says everything is welcome, except clothing.
“No, we’re not taking clothing,” she continued. “We’re really not set up to take clothing. We have not been informed that clothing is something that the people in Central and South Florida are in great need of. It’s more food, water toiletry items, those types of things, garbage bags, and cleaning products.”
The Bay County Sheriff’s office wants people to bring any donated items to the main building lobby located on North Highway 77 in Panama City. They’ll be doing the drive for at least a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays.
For more news updates, follow Sascha Cordner on Twitter: @SaschaCordner.