CARTERVILLE - Century 21 real-estate offices in Southern Illinois have a soft spot for making people feel more at home.

Employees collected hundreds of items and made monetary donations to the women's shelter in Carbondale.

"There are women that leave in the middle of the night or after a fight and they don't have anything. They don't even have everyday items like toothbrushes and razors," Century 21 Realtor Pam Barnes said.

Barnes coordinated the event and spent 90 days collecting items donated from approximately 50 employees throughout the Carterville, Marion, Lake of Egypt, Murphysboro and Carbondale offices. They placed everyday items like towels, toothbrushes and various cosmetic products in laundry baskets for the center to distribute.

"There was a lot of excitement when the staff saw all the items. They mentioned that the ladies were really going to appreciate it and that they were overwhelmed," said Iva Dell Clay, development specialist for the Women's Center in Carbondale. "The women don't think about packing shampoo and other items. They grab a few articles of clothing. They're in a state of confusion after leaving their violent homes. It's just a little way that they can feel special."

Barnes believes that donation and volunteerism are important for the center to thrive and plans to contribute as much as possible. This is the first year the drive has taken place.

"We appreciate Century 21 going above and beyond by collecting so many items that will be truly useful in the day-to-day workings of the Women's Center," Clay said.

Meagan.sexton@thesouthern.com

351-5804