From staff reports
Staff members with the Northwest Regional Planning and Development Commission in Oil City wanted to do something to honor co-worker Barb Yard, who passed away last year after a battle with breast cancer.
“Barb was someone who never wanted to be in the spotlight but always wanted to help out,” said Travis Siegel, a project specialist with the Northwest Commission.
Siegel said the staff brainstormed with Yard’s husband, Richard, and decided that a clothing drive to help others was a fitting tribute.
The office was bombarded with donations in the first week, according to Northwest Commission executive director Jill Foys.
“I can’t say enough about the goodwill and enthusiasm that has been shown by staff and the community,” she said.
Nearly 6,000 items were collected.
Siegel said the commission set aside some office space but soon had to dedicate rooms to the collection. Staff members tried their best to sort by season, adult or children, gender and, when possible, sizes.
Lisa Swartz of Hope Twenty-One said she was overwhelmed by the donations.
“So many people will benefit as a result,” Swartz said.
