Red Stocking is a long-standing effort to provide food and clothing to Island children from birth through grade eight. Approximately 280 children were served last year by Red Stocking.

Applications for 2007 will be available by Thursday, Nov. 1, at Martha’s Vineyard Insurance Co. in Vineyard Haven, at most branches of all banks, from elementary school nurses, at the early childhood office of Martha’s Vineyard Community Services, at the state Department of Social Services, at the tribal headquarters in Aquinnah, at 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, who can be reached at 508-696-0020.

Red Stocking workers strongly urge parents to apply early, preferably by Nov. 16, so that they might receive food certificates for Thanksgiving.

Wrapping will be done Dec. 12 to 14 at Grace Church in Vineyard Haven. The program always can use volunteer wrappers. Please call Patricia Carlet at 508-693-3187, and let her know when you can help.

On Sunday, Nov. 11, the Martha’s Vineyard Harley Riders will be conducting their around-the-Island ride collecting toys and contributions. 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.

More information is available by calling Kerry Alley at 508-693-2324 or Lorraine Clark at 508-693-0725. Checks in support of Red Stocking may be mailed to treasurer Barbara Silvia at P.O. Box 74, Vineyard Haven, MA 02557.