BANGOR – The Penobscot County Sheriff’s Department is organizing a relief effort this weekend for victims of Hurricane Frances in Florida. Nonperishable food, personal hygiene and other needed items will be collected from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. today, Sunday and Monday at the Sam’s Club parking lot off Hogan Road.

In addition, volunteers will be needed to help pack the items for shipping to Florida. Organizers hope to fill a tractor-trailer with donated items. Groups that are willing to collect items in their communities and bring them to Sam’s Club are also welcome.

Other items expected to be needed are: baby and adult diapers, insect repellent, ice chests, fans, flashlights, batteries, work gloves, sunscreen, baby formula, rain ponchos, duct tape, bed linens, tarps and rakes.

The American Red Cross also advised those with relatives in Florida to establish communication plans for the storm’s aftermath. For assistance in contacting a loved one, call the Pine Tree Chapter at 1-800-876-7008 or the Rockland office at 1-800-664-0009.