The First Baptist Church of Flora announced that its winter clothing drive has been temporarily halted following multiple deliveries of supplies to North Carolina following Hurricane Helene due to items being collected that were declined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA.
John Ohman with the church announced today, Wednesday, Oct. 16 that FEMA has and will reject all used items, including clothing, blankets and more, as they require new items to be distributed. Ohman stated that numerous community members have stepped up since its call for donations with a vast array of used items, but he stated that since the items cannot be distributed to those affected, the church will shut down all donations until it figures out a home for all the items.
“I am thinking possibly a local free clothing drive,” Ohman wrote. “Your thoughts and ideas are much appreciated.”
Ohman stated that the church does not intend to sell the donated items or donate the items to a retailer, and the church is currently seeking community feedback as to how the items could be distributed to those in need locally for free.
Ohman stated that the church has sent two semi loads with items accepted by FEMA to North Carolina, but due to the restrictions on used items, the used donated items were unable to be delivered.
