Countywide : Red Cross, Goodwill Collecting Clothing

Under a new program aimed at helping victims of fires and natural disasters countywide, the American Red Cross and Goodwill Industries are now collecting donations of clothing.

Clothing will be collected at the Red Cross offices, 601 N. Golden Circle Drive, Santa Ana. People wishing to donate clothing may do so between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays and on weekends, said spokesman Stephen Chavez.

Clothing should be in good condition, and small household appliances will also be accepted, although large items such as furniture and stoves cannot be taken.

Under the joint venture with Goodwill Industries, donated items will be stockpiled until they are needed by victims of disasters, including floods and fires, Chavez added.

Those emergency needs arise frequently, he said pointing to recent apartment fires in Laguna Hills and Santa Ana. The Santa Ana fire affected more than 100 people, many of whom were left homeless.

The new cooperation of the Red Cross and Goodwill is aimed at improving the county’s disaster preparedness.

It should also serve as a model for other organizations, including businesses, Chavez said. Chavez added: “We are always seeking these types of partnerships.”

For additional information on donations, call the Red Cross at (714) 835-5381.