- November 28, 2024
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Scenes of the devastation in Japan are inspiring residents of Flagler County to take action.
A blanket drive is under way, led by Alayne McDonald, a freshman at Matanzas High School. Her brother, Ryan, is stationed on the USS George Washington, in Atsugi, Japan. She saw on the ship’s Facebook page that the sailors on the ship were collecting blankets for the victims of the earthquake.
From there, Alayne and her parents, Bill and Sandy (teacher at Buddy Taylor Middle and paraprofessional at Rymfire Elementary schools, respectively) have been spreading the word.
Alayne said she has been scrambling around Matanzas High, talking to teachers between classes and shuttling blankets.
“It’s like go, go, go, go,” she said.
The blanket drive was scheduled to end Wednesday, March 23, but Alayne has decided now to give it one more week, to collect as many as possible. The drive will end at 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 30. She said she might make more than one shipment to quickly get them to those in need.
Alayne said how to transport the blankets was the biggest question. The family contacted the Red Cross for help, but representatives there said the organization was only accepting monetary donations. They suggested Alayne try Mission Harvest of America Inc., located in Jacksonville.
Mission Harvest has agreed to ship the blankets. For more information, check back for updates, or call Alayne at 445-8451.
Drop off locations
Net FXpro, which is located near The Home Depot
Flagler County Chamber of Commerce & Affiliates
Flagler County Government Services Building
Bunnell City Hall, 200 S. Church St.
Rymfire Elementary School
K-Kids spread the word
The K-Kids, a Rymfire Elementary student-led service organization affiliated with the Kiwanis Club, is also promoting the project. They're also collecting flat sheets (not fitted).
Below is a video featuring Catie Rami and Brittny Doutrick, from the Rymfire morning announcements.
