A group of Lincoln County volunteers is leading an effort tocollect goods and supplies to assist victims of a tornado thatripped through Pontotoc County this past weekend.

James Laird, drive coordinator, said needed items include babyformula, baby food, new baby bottles, children’s clothes for allages and sizes, supplies for diabetics, can openers, towels andbath cloths.

Drop-off locations for the supplies are the Sullivan Mazdashowroom on Magee Drive and at the front office of BrookhavenOutreach Ministries on East Court Street.

“We need everything by Monday, March 5, and we’ll take it toPontotoc on Tuesday or Wednesday,” Laird said.

Laird said citizens could also make a financial contribution tothe effort.

An account has been set up at Bank of Brookhaven and checks maybe made out to Pontotoc County Storm Relief # 0152483. The bank isnot charging a fee for those who choose to use money orders, Lairdsaid, noting that he will pick up financial contributions. He maybe reached at 835-0129.

Checks may also be sent directly to Pontotoc County. The addressis: First National Bank, P.O. Box 29, Pontotoc, MS, 38863.

Laird has a connection with Pontotoc County through MissMississippi Christy May, and they have worked to increase publicawareness of the need for people to be organ and tissue donors.Laird’s son Jonathan is an organ transplant recipient.

And, there’s also another reason he wants to help.

“I know that if this storm had hit here, other parts of thestate would be helping us,” he said.