January 23, 2008 -- Northwood Junior High School students and staff have initiated a community-service project to craft fleece quilts for woman and children residing at the Genesis House domestic violence shelter.

Northwood is currently accepting donations of fleece and flannel fabric, batting, yarn, scissors and thread. A drop-off box is located in the main office of the school at 700 Gulf Road, Elyria. Monetary donations are also accepted.

One adult-sized blanket requires a yard and a half of material, while a baby blanket takes approximately one yard, says Jennifer Maiden, Northwood teacher and organizer of the drive. Students and staff will assemble the blankets as material is collected. According to Maiden, the donations are "welcome with open arms" at the Genesis House. The blanket drive and assembly project will continue through the remainder of this school year.

For more information, contact Northwood Junior High School at 284-8016.