Liberty township residents and administrators have been working throughout the month to give back to those who need it the most.
From their clothing drive, toy drives and collection for the Green family, who suffered a tragedy last month, residents have been consistent with their donations to the township's collection programs.
''It's amazing the response we've gotten from the community,'' said Jodi Stoyak, township trustee.
Collection barrels for winter clothes have been set up at each Liberty School Building, the bus garage, the Jewish Community Center and Temple El Emeth, where they have been collecting coats, hats, gloves, scarves, backpacks and other winter clothes.
Township officials are distributing these items from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. each weekday.
In addition to the clothing drive, toys also were collected, wrapped and bagged for families in need. Township administrators and employees, members of the Liberty Historical Society and members of the United Methodist Church worked several hours to wrap and package donations. A special drive to aid children of the Green family also was organized by police secretary Marcy Orlando.
The township will continue to collect winter clothing through February at the township administration building, located at 1315 Churchill Hubbard Road.
The winter clothing drive began more than 30 years ago by Blott Elementary teacher, Gretchen Reed, said Jodi Stoyak, township trustee. Although Reed is now retired, the program continues each season to collect warm clothing for township residents.
''Anyone from the township can pick up or donate clothing,'' said June Smallwood, township park and program coordinator.
Donations are always accepted, and there is no charge for the clothes.