The STEP-Up Tamaqua group continues to make strides in its efforts to address drug addiction.

This month, the group will sponsor a "Night of Hope" and Drug Take Back event as well as collecting gently used business clothing to help recovering addicts get back on their feet.The Tamaqua Chamber of Commerce is acting as a drop-off point for the business clothing.Donations may be taken to 37 W. Broad St., Tamaqua, Mondays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Wednesdays, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.The Night of Hope and Drug Take Back Night will be held at 7 p.m. Oct. 17 at Trinity United Church of Christ, 22 Lafayette St., Tamaqua.Guest speakers will include two recovering addicts, Mike Machay of "The Skook Recovers," and Layne Hinderliter and Wayne Smith, representatives of the HOPE Initiative of Faith Church in Orwigsburg.Unused drugs may be dropped off at the church social hall from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 17. Entry to the social hall is at the rear of the church.For more information, contact George Taylor at

gtay200@verizon.net.