At least 15 semi-trucks packed with relief supplies donated by Iowans are expected to leave Des Moines this morning (Wednesday), headed for New Orleans. Iowa Jaycees president Molly Redenbaugh, of Ames, says they have tons of supplies to send to hurricane survivors but still need at least five to ten more trucks and drivers to haul it down to the Gulf Coast. They still need standard semi-trailers, no refrigeration, and drivers, though they’ve already taken calls from hundreds of drivers willing to donate their time. Redenbaugh says the Jaycees chapters across Iowa have been collecting items of all sorts from caring Iowans. The Dubuque Jaycees took in 15 semi loads of bottled water. Other items include: first aid kits, cleaning supplies, baby goods, food and tarps. Redenbaugh says “The people of Iowa have just been phenomenal.” People were initially instructed -not- to donate such items for hurricane relief, but to send cash instead. Redenbaugh explains why they took the action they did. She says the Louisiana Jaycees called last week and stressed the need for such items, simply because of the amount of people who are displaced. Redenbaugh says anyone who would like to donate cash should contact their nearest Red Cross chapter. For more information on the Jaycees’ effort, surf to “www.iowajaycees.org”.
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