FRANKLIN
The shelves at Franklin Cooperative Ministry are becoming bare, and the public’s help is sought to replenish them for the upcoming holidays and the winter ahead.

Director Veronica Ferguson is calling for donations of food and hygiene items, as well as clothing.

Several months ago, the generosity of a “huge donation” by the Bronco Federal Credit Union enabled the FCM to get through the summer months. Now Ferguson is calling on residents to help those in genuine need. She regularly takes steps to verify the applicants’ requests.

Because FCM is not a food bank, it needs donations.

Canned and dry goods, tissues and toilet paper, razors and shaving cream, toothpaste and toothbrushes, as well as clothing are welcomed. Contributors can bring in the items they’ve shopped, or bring monetary donations to enable staff to buy what’s needed.

The agency is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m.; Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon.

Ferguson emphasized that the help FCM offers is not intended to “foster dependency.”

FCM is located at 301 W. First Ave., Franklin. Call 516-6322 for more i nformation.