Gift drive continues to help Katrina victims

The “Christmas Blessings to New Orleans” gift drive to benefit victims of Hurricane Katrina continues through December 13.

Unwrapped, small gifts for people of all ages are being collected at three locations in Sisters.

Gifts can be dropped off at Sisters Coffee Company (273 W. Hood Ave.) and Sisters Video (413 W. Hood Ave.) during regular business hours and at Three Sisters Fellowship (442 Trinity Way), Tuesday-Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

According to coordinator Kim Barry, gifts from Central Oregon will be delivered to New Orleans the week before Christmas and distributed through local churches there.

Sisters resident Woodie Woodsom, who has been volunteering in the relief effort in New Orleans since mid-November, reported to Barry last week that 800 people from all walks of life were in a recent food distribution line where he was working. He said that people are trying to come back to their “homes” and rebuild, but are forced to live in tents and under overpasses for now.

“The needs of the people are tremendous,” said Barry, “but the response from people from Central Oregon can make a difference.”

Barry noted that the elderly are particularly impacted by the disaster. “Older people often had the most to lose and the least resource and ability to start the recovery process.” Barry believes that even small gifts and cards for elderly people will be an encouragement.

Financial donations, which are tax deductible, are also being accepted to help cover the cost of a delivery truck. Checks can be made to Three Sisters Fellowship.

For more information call 549-2934 or email [email protected]