Gifts of Warmth keep community aglow

Because of the Gift of Warmth Program, the Bourbon County Chapter of the American Red Cross is once again stocked with blankets which will provide warmth during the cold winter months.

According to Bourbon County Chapter of the Red Cross Executive Director Whendi Martin, the local Red Cross had previously run out of blankets to offer families who needed a little help keeping warm this winter. However, through the efforts of Wal-Mart Supercenter, 2500 S. Main, and the generosity of local residents, the Fort Scott Red Cross office is once again prepared to help those families.

The Gift of Warmth, being conducted by Wal-Mart Supercenter, is a program which allows area residents to donate unneeded blankets, gently-used coats, hats, gloves and scarves. The essential cold weather items are then distributed to local families who are less fortunate.

According to a press release from Martin, anyone in need of blankets should stop by the local Red Cross office, 116 S. Main, and submit an application for assistance. Because supplies are limited, there is a two blanket limit per qualifying family, Martin said. Applications can be filled out between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday-Thursday.

The Gift of Warmth project began on Dec. 5, and will continue through Dec. 31. Anyone interested in making a donation to the project can take their cold weather items to Wal-Mart and place them in one of the two collection boxes located at each of the store's front entrances.