The City of McDonough is working to provide assistance and relief to those affected by Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas.

  The storm wreaked havoc on that area earlier this month, with its combination of strong winds and heavy rainfall.

  In response to numerous requests, McDonough has added Saturdays as available drop-off days for relief items throughout September. Donations can be dropped off at the city’s Public Works building, 305 Racetrack Road, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, during the month of September.

  The relief effort began under the inspiration of McDonough City Councilmember Sandra Vincent, said the city’s Public Information Officer, Trisha Colpetzer. She said Vincent started the initiative because some of her family members were personally affected by Dorian.

  “She didn’t even know if they were okay for some time,” said Colpetzer. “This will be an ongoing effort because the entire area was completely devastated  -buildings, homes, everything was just wiped away.

  Colpetzer said the city has already sent a shipment of relief items to the Bahamas, with more expected periodically.

  “We always say ‘with a McDonough heart,’ but we’re extending that to the Bahamas right now because it’s needed,” said Colpetzer.

  Items acceptable for donation include: non-perishable food; canned goods; plastic water bottles; water-purification tablets; water filters; family-hygiene kits; toiletries; baby items and supplies; diapers; first-aid items; cots; new blankets and bedding; new pillows; flashlights; batteries; cleaning supplies; hand sanitizer; leather work gloves; utility knives; solar panels.

  For more information, call Trisha Colpetzer at 470-277-4487.