By KARI BLURTON
Hays Post

Staff and volunteers at Hays Medical Center Hospice are asking the community to clean out their closets for a good cause.

Donations for the nonprofit’s  weekend “garage-sale” fundraiser are being accepted from 6 p.m. to  9:30 p.m. Thursday at the south end of Hays Mall, 2918 Vine.

Longtime Hospice volunteer Laurie Mortinger said the event, scheduled for Friday and Saturday, is the organization’s biggest fundraiser and helps Hospice continue providing support services for terminally ill patients.

Whether it’s helping with bills or just being a shoulder to lean on, Mortinger said Hospice does not turn away anyone who needs help with the “death and dying experience” and continues through the bereavement process family members face when a loved one dies.

“Everyone I have talked to who has used Hospice has just said how wonderful (the program) is,” she said. “(Hospice) kept the family together.”

Mortinger said Hospice is hoping to raise $5,000.  All funds raised go directly toward the care of  HaysMed Hospice patients.

Donated items must be in good condition and can include household items, jewelry, belts, purses, kitchenware, books, linens, baby items, working electronics, lamps and art. Clothing and shoes will not be accepted.

The fundraiser begins Friday from 1 p.m. until dark and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hays Mall.

For questions about the fundraiser or to schedule a time for donated items to be picked up, contact Mortinger at (785) 635-5616.

For more information on HaysMed Hopsice services, call (785) 623-6200 or click HERE.