Red Stocking is a long-standing Vineyard effort to provide food and clothing to Island children from birth through grade eight. Approximately 375 children were served last year by Red Stocking.

Applications for 2010 will be available around Nov. 1 at Martha’s Vineyard Insurance Company in Vineyard Haven, at most branches of all Island banks, as well as from elementary school nurses, the early childhood office of Martha’s Vineyard Community Services, the Department of Children and Families, tribal headquarters in Aquinnah, the Island Food Pantry and the Boys’ and Girls’ Club.

Portuguese-speaking applicants may get applications as well as assistance in translating and completing applications from the staff at Health Care Access of Martha’s Vineyard (508-696-0020). We strongly urge parents to apply early, preferably by Nov. 15, so that they might receive food certificates for Thanksgiving.

Wrapping will be done on Monday to Wednesday, Dec. 13 to 15, at Grace Church in Vineyard Haven. We can always use volunteer wrappers. Please call Patricia Carlet at 693-3187 to let her know when you can help.

The Martha’s Vineyard Harley Riders will be conducting their around-the-Island ride collecting toys and contributions on Sunday, Nov. 14. This event provides approximately one-third of Red Stocking’s annual budget. The public is invited to welcome the Harley Riders at noon at the Portuguese American Club in Oak Bluffs.

For further information call Kerry Alley at 508-693-2324 or Lorraine Clark at 508-693-0725. Checks in support of Red Stocking may be mailed to Barbara Silvia, Treasurer, at 67 Midland avenue, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568.