Any one who is considering volunteer opportunities and monetary donations have several options available:
— “Roger’s Wish” project by the Bladen Journal through the month of October will expand its focus from the homeless and needy to all residents who are in need of warm blankets. Those wishing to donate blanets, sleeping bags or any other items residents may need can bring them to the newspaper office starting Monday.
– Gov. Pat McCrory has activated the NC Disaster Relief Fund to which monetary contributions may be made. To make a donation, please visit ncdisasterrelief.org.
You may also text NCRECOVERS to 30306.
All donations received will support Hurricane Matthew long-term recovery efforts in North Carolina. All other monetary donations and offers to volunteer may be made directly through charitable nonprofit organizations that are responding to this disaster.
Information is available under the “Hurricane Matthew — Donate Now” on the NC Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NCVOAD) website at https://www.ncvoad.org.
Clothing
– Clothing items are not being accepted at this time. Please donate clothing items to charitable organizations in your local community which can make best use of these donated items.
Food
– Please donate food items through local food banks and charities in your community.
Cash is best
— Financial contributions to recognized disaster relief organizations are the fastest, most flexible, and most effective method of assisting. Organizations on the ground know what items and quantities are needed, often buy in bulk with discounts and, if possible, purchase through area businesses which supports economic recovery.