HURRICANE - Forrest Burdette Memorial United Methodist Church members are gearing up for their Lil' Lambs closet big spring clothing sale.

The money raised from the sale goes toward women and children in need. Volunteer Michelle Jackson said parishioners are very proud of that ability to help others out.

"Some children don't ask for anything," Jackson said. "We have kids who ask for hairbrushes. There is such a need here I don't think people realize."

Preparations for the sale began early this month, including registering the 250 vendors and checking all of the clothing. The clothing is in children's sizes infant to 14. According to Pastoral Assistant of Forrest Burdette Memorial UMC Don Gatewood, the church is very picky about the clothing that is sold.

"People check for stains, tears, and items missing buttons," Gatewood said. "Many items still have the original price tags on them."

In addition to good-quality clothing, the prices are very reasonable, Gatewood said. For those who qualify, angel dollars are available to help with clothing purchases.

According to Jackson, the first sale was in 1995 and since then, sales have topped $1 million.

"We are very proud of that," Jackson said.

With 12 board members and 30 women volunteering, it still takes the entire church congregation to keep the sales going. The board decides where the money is distributed.

Lil' Lambs tithes, giving 10 percent to the church and the rest of the money is divided. Some goes toward the church's projects for children and some is given to support children's' projects outside of the church, such as the Eagle Scouts, Reach Workcamps, and Operation Iraqi Children. In addition, a $1,000 college scholarship is given to a high school student who attends the church or is a church member.

Similarly, 100 percent of Lil' Lambs October toy sale profits go directly to providing Christmas for children in area schools.

"You hear so many stories of children in need and it breaks your heart that you are not able to help them," Jackson said. "This is a chance for us to make a difference."

The Lil' Lambs spring sale is March 6 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and March 7 from 9 a.m. to noon at Forrest Burdette Memorial UMC. For more information, call 304-562-5903.

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