“This year was a huge success,” said organizer Frank Fannon. “We collected three pickup trucks full of clothing and over $2,000 in cash contributions. A lot of the clothing donations were new so Christ House was especially grateful for the generosity of our donors.”

Boy Scouts Damian Klimn, Colin Bruce and Johnny Cooney of Den 1 Pack 614 take a break from helping sort donations during the Feb. 12 Alexandrians Have Heart food and clothing drive.

 

Held over Valentine’s Day weekend, the drive benefits Christ House, Carpenter’s Shelter and ALIVE!

“As we have gone through the pandemic, there are more Alexandrians in need of clothing and especially food,” Fannon said. “We had a large contribution of children’s clothes this year following a big request from the charities. So if anyone has clothing to contribute please follow up with the local charities and continue to make your donations.”

Donations were sorted and loaded by volunteers, including Boy Scouts from Den 1 Pack 614 near Polk Elementary School.

“The boys are here to help load, unload and pack the donations as they come in,” said Den leader John Cooney.

“We collected three pickup trucks full of clothing and over $2,000 in cash contributions.

—Alexandrians Have Heart organizer Frank Fannon

Members of the Commonwealth Republican Women’s Club were also on hand supporting the event.

“We are here as part of our community outreach donating clothing and money for the Alexandrians Have Heart food and clothing drive,” said Susie Miller, president of the organization. “We are here every year to help Alexandrians in need.”

Although it wasn’t needed, Fannon had the traditional firepit going as donors enjoyed complimentary coffee and donuts.

“This was a great turnout,” Fannon said. “I am happy so many Alexandrians participated this year.”