Demopolis Dollar General store manager Deana Pritchett at first thought her idea to start Demopolis Cares would be something done annually around Christmas to help children and the elderly.

And, the project did just that, placing gifts in the hands of kids and seniors throughout the area last month.

But the partnership between local businesses and the Demopolis Police Department and Demopolis Fire and Rescue didn’t stop there.

The project’s supporters plan to host a yard sale Feb. 2 at one of the Fairhaven Baptist Church buildings near Dollar General to raise money to send Easter goodies to soldiers serving overseas. The yard sale will be from 7 a.m. to noon.

“The idea came when someone came to me and said ‘why don’t y’all do something for the soldiers?’” Pritchett said.

In addition to the yard sale, there will be a raffle for different items. Tickets are $1. Some of the things to be raffled off include a 40-inch television, a microwave and a $25 gas gift card.

Prizes have been donated by several businesses, including Dollar General, Gold Mine, Greencare, Mike’s Auto, Parr’s Chevron, River City Bike Club and Tate’s Auto Detailing.

People can also donate change at the Demopolis Dollar General.

“One man just came in the store and donated because he said his brother was a soldier,” Prichett said. He said, ‘Can I just hug your neck for doing this?’ and I told him sure he could.

Pritchett hopes for a large turnout at the yard sale. People can donate items for sale at Dollar General.

She also asks that service people come by the store and tell her what things they believe their comrades overseas would need or want the most.

“I want it to be stuff they need,” she said. “If there are any returned soldiers in the area, I encourage them to come by Dollar General and let me know some things the soldiers really need.”

The raffle will go through March 16 and Pritchett anticipates the boxes being mailed no later than March 18.