County-wide blanket drive to benefit homeless, seniors and more

THE WOODLANDS, Texas - Now that it is December, we can expect cooler temperatures but not everyone’s prepared for them. That’s why the sixth annual “Blanket the Community” drive is so important; collecting blankets for those in need in Montgomery County including the homeless, senior citizens, children and even four-footed friends at the animal shelters.

A-Plus Caring, Community and Compassion, a 501(c) (3) in Montgomery County led by Carolyn Gerken, has been organizing blanket drives 2009. However, this is the first year that the non-profit is targeting several groups, and “blanketing the community”. According to Gerken, “There is an even greater need for blankets and warm supplies such as scarves and towels. Our senior citizens and animal shelters always need blankets when the temperatures drop as they don’t last very long due to laundering. And, this year, Montgomery County in particular has experienced an increase in its homeless population and is in desperate need of blankets and towels to help the homeless while they transition.”

Gerken and her team of volunteers have also been busy making homemade scarves to be distributed to the homeless and The Salvation Army in Conroe. So far, the group has made more than 125 scarves, with plans to make at least another 100. “Staying warm is a basic need for many of these people and something most of us take for granted. These donations are the little things that make a big difference to people,” Gerken said.

Gerken said the items needed most are bath towels for Montgomery County’s homeless shelter; lap quilts and blankets for senior citizens; toys and blankets for underprivileged children; and old towels, blanket, dog food and deer corn for the animal shelter.

The organization is accepting items until Monday, Dec. 15. There are two drop-off locations: Donna Wick Public Relations, 1718 Rayford Road, Spring, TX 77386 or A-Plus Caring Community & Compassion, 594 Sawdust, #389, The Woodlands, TX 77380.

For more information, please contact Gerken at 713-682-4705.