North Adams Group Short 500 Wreaths for Veterans Ceremony

The Berkshire Eagle reports the organizers of the local Wreaths Across America effort knew they'd taken on a big challenge with their goal to place a wreath on the gravestone of every city veteran.

But they didn't know just how big a challenge it would be.

Donna Engels and Donna Whitcomb were planning to raise $25,000 to put wreaths of remembrance on the graves of about 2,500 veterans. But when all the research and plotting was done, the full picture of the city's commitment to national service was revealed.

The full number of graves: 3,218.

Southview Cemetery alone has 2,867 at last count. So, the group's changed tactics to focus on Southview alone, however, it still needs to come up about 500 wreaths.

Whitcomb had been out trying to raise more funds last week to cover the final 500 wreaths for Southview. Each wreath sponsorship is $15; for every two purchased, the nonprofit Wreaths Across America provides a third.

The deadline for donations is Friday, Nov. 30, to allow enough time to place the order for delivery.

It is important that those wishing to donate should do so through the Facebook page or the North Adams page on Wreaths Across America.