Published: September 25, 2008 08:00 pm      

Drive to benefit hurricane victims

TRAVERSE CITY -- The Northwest Michigan Chapter of the American Red Cross will kick off a "Spare Change Drive for Hurricane Relief 2008" at a local football game tonight.

The local Red Cross wants to raise $32,000 for those affected by Hurricanes Gustav and Ike and asks anyone with spare change to donate it to the cause.

The change drive will begin at Traverse City West High School's homecoming game at Thirlby Field, where change can be left in a wooden Red Cross change receptacle near the concession stand. Otherwise, change can be deposited in donation boxes at local retailers throughout the community.

Volunteers still are needed, including businesses, to host change boxes and sponsors to provide matching funds on event days. Anyone or any business interested in having a change box should call the Northwest Michigan Red Cross at (231) 947-7286.