August 11, 2026 3:05 a.m. 

H.O.P.E. Drug Court Participant Merrill Ball has launched the “Warm for the Winter – Helping Those in Need” community project.

A H.O.P.E. Drug Court release said having once experienced life without stable housing himself, Ball knows firsthand how much a warm coat, a blanket, and a helping hand can mean to someone who is struggling. Bail is collecting new and gently used winter essentials for adults in need throughout the county.

Donations sought include:

*Adult coats in all sizes

*Throw blankets

*New socks

*New gloves

*Hand warmers

*Simple hygiene items

Drop-off locations are at Clint Newell Motors on Northeast Stephens Street and Big O Tires on Northwest Stewart Parkway through September 11th. Merrill Ball will also be outside Roseburg Grocery Outlet on Northwest Garden Valley Boulevard accepting donations and talking with community members on these dates:

*August 18th and August 25th from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

*September 1st from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The 114th H.O.P.E. Drug Court graduation will be on Tuesday, October 13th at 5:15 p.m. in Cascade Hall at the Douglas County Fairgrounds.

For more information on H.O.P.E. Drug Court, go to: https://www.douglascountyor.gov/851/HOPE-Drug-Court