KOSCIUSKO — Kosciusko County Fireman’s Association has begun collecting non-perishable food items for the victims of yesterday’s tornado in Kokomo.

Kevin McSherry, president of the association, announced the group is coordinating efforts through the American Red Cross and Joe Sechrist, local disaster response team coordinator.

Food items that can be kept without refrigeration will be accepted at fire stations from Syracuse to Sidney through Saturday morning. The items could include items from gardens that can withstand the trip and do not need refrigeration. Most of that area is currently without electricity. All donations will be gathered and representatives will transport the food to Kokomo.

McSherry stated there are 16 fire departments in the county where items can be dropped off.