RUMFORD – Two more efforts are under way in the River Valley to raise money or items for the victims of last month’s Indian Ocean tsunami.

Heather Sorensen, a Rumford resident and mother of three small children, has launched a drive to gather new or nearly new blankets and stuffed animals for children who experienced the natural disaster.

She is calling her effort, “Comfort for Kids.”

“I was watching all these children over there and wishing I could be there to hug them,” she said. She believes a favorite blanket or stuffed animal can sometimes be almost as good, she said.

Ta-Dah Hairstyling on Main Street in Mexico has volunteered to serve as a drop-off point for donations, Sorensen said. She is also looking for volunteers to help her coordinate packaging for shipping and for donations to help with postage. She also plans to work with the Salvation Army to get the stuffed animals and blankets shipped to where they are needed most.

Sorensen expects to ask some of the area’s service groups to help out as well.

She asks that all donations be made by Feb. 14. More information on how to help out may be obtained by calling Sorensen at 369-9007.

Also in Rumford, St. Athanasius and St. John Catholic Church is holding a benefit dance to help tsunami victims. It will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 8 during its Mardi Gras events.

Music will be performed by the E and I Band in the church hall.

The donation is $5 per person. Those attending are asked to bring snacks and beverages, but no alcohol is allowed.