Each year, city officials from around the state participate in a charitable cause that pulls them out of their usual territories to the nearest state hospital with gifts in hand.

The Mayor’s Motorcade is a collection effort sponsored by the Georgia Municipal Association that brings in donations of clothing and essentials from the community and funnels them to a designated state hospital.

Donations from Gordon County benefit Northwest Georgia Regional Hospital in Rome.

According to hospital representative Marla McDonald., the hospital houses about 240 clients, many of them mentally disabled. Clothing items like scarves and gloves are useful, she said, as well as sweat suits in all sizes, especially extra large ones.

Clients also enjoy small televisions, DVDs and DVD players, she said.

Although food, like cookies, is allowed, she said no candy or gum will be accepted.

Participation from cities throughout Northwest Georgia varies, but McDonald said last year was the best year yet for the event. Despite a lagging economy, communities sent in $10,000 in donations, she said.

A parade for the clients and the lighting of the Trees of Hope at the facility will take place Dec. 8. The Mayor’s Motorcade will roll in Dec. 15.

Calhoun Mayor Jimmy Palmer acknowledged this is a “difficult time” to ask for donations from the community, but said these gifts “keep on giving throughout the year.”

Many of the hospital’s clients, he said, do not see many visitors. “It is entirely home to them,” he explained.

Donations can be made through Dec. 15 at Calhoun City Hall downtown.

Fairmount is also participating in the effort. Donations can be made at Fairmount City Hall.

For more information about the Mayors’ Motorcade, visit the official website.