By ROWENA PLETT

Staff writer

Hannah Bourbon of Peabody is always looking for ways to help people in her community. She was a big supporter of the Angel Tree.

Her latest endeavor was to organize the washing of coats and jackets for school children at no charge.

“With the sickness and colds going around this time of year, I thought it would be a good thing,” Bourbon said.

With the support of school administrators and the help of Linda Martinez, owner of The Wringer, and other volunteers, coats were picked up at the school at 8:45 a.m. Thursday, cleaned, and delivered back to the school at 11: 15 a.m.

Bourbon said when others found out what she wanted to do, they immediately wanted to help. They donated soap, stain remover, fabric softener, hangers, and money. Four volunteers donated time to do the work.

“We thought it would take all day,” Bourbon said, “but because of The Wringer’s facilities, we got it done quickly. We got rid of a lot of germs and dirt.”

At least 24 items were washed and dried, and two items were repaired.

They came from the elementary school.

Bourbon was hoping more students would drop off items to be cleaned.

She said the offer was open to students of all ages, and she may do it again this winter.