Volunteers at Brookhaven Outreach Ministries hope to make thewinter a bit warmer for the needy when “Operation Blessing”launches Saturday.

However, because available winter items are limited, those inneed of help must register to participate in the event at theministry or the Department of Human Services by 5 p.m. today, saidthe Rev. Jerry Durr, director of Brookhaven OutreachMinistries.

Those who register can pick up food and household items, hygieneand cleaning supplies, winter clothing, blankets and pipeinsulation material at the ministry from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m.Saturday.

Those who register will receive a ticket that must be presentedwhen picking up items Saturday, Durr said. Any leftover items willbe distributed on a first come, first served basis.

“We’ve had real good success with this in meeting the needs ofthe needs of our community during the weather transition to thefall,” he said. “Operation Blessing is primarily set up to helpthem prepare for the cold winter months.”

Pipe insulation material is a new item this year, Durr said. Itwas donated by a local manufacturing company to help ensure homesare not disrupted when water pipes burst.

Brookhaven Outreach Ministries has sponsored and organizedOperation Blessing for nearly 20 years as one of their manyoutreach programs to address group and community needs, rather thanfocusing on individuals.

Future events include their annual Thanksgiving and Christmasgiveaway programs.

“Our busiest season begins now and continues through December,”Durr said.

The ministry also offers a variety of daily individual servicesfrom medical care to fighting hunger.

This year alone, Brookhaven Outreach Ministries has locallydistributed 42,253 pounds of food and provided assistance to 2,568people from Jan. 1 to Oct. 15, Durr said.

The ministry will continue to accept donations of winter itemsto be distributed Saturday through the end of the day.