Blanket drive begins final week

By Donnie A. Lucas

With the arrival of cooler temperatures, a special donation drive to collect blankets for senior citizens to be able to stay warm over the winter has reached a little less than half of the goal.

Organized by Albany resident Stephen Gleitz, about 60 new blankets had been collected as of Monday as the last week of the drive started. A goal of 150 blankets was set to be able to cover local senior citizens.

Originally, a deadline of Sunday, Nov. 14 was set, but donations will continue to be accepted next week.

“Stephen set that date based on a report he will need to provide by the end of the month,” wife Stephanie Gleitz said Monday. “If there are still donations coming in for a few days next week, we will gladly take them.”

Donors can drop the blankets at collection tubs located next to the office at First Baptist Church.

Stephen Gleitz is the director of Critical Care Services at Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene and is completing his Masters in Nursing Administration in December. One of his degree requirements was to conduct a community service project.

Gleitz is also looking for volunteers to help deliver the blankets prior to the Thanksgiving holidays.

Drop-off times at the church office are 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Monday through Friday.

The recommended size for the blankets is either 50x70 inches or 60x80 inches. He said that new blankets or throws can be purchased for an average of $20.

For more information contact Stephen at 713-502-6655 or Stephanie at 832-265-0878. FBC pastor Jeff Turner can also be contacted about the effort at 432-254-1040.

The project is open to everyone in the community and will benefit senior citizens regardless of church affiliation.