When times get tough, a lot of good causes that need the most help often start having to make do with less.

Charities often see their donations dwindle as people who normally give start to struggle themselves.

To try and combat that, The Summit Church, based in Durham, is making a concerted effort at collecting donations.

As people showed up for Sunday services, many made a quick pit-stop to drop off clothes, food and other items.

"It's just really cool to see people wanting to come and support their community," said church member Meredith Powell.

Within a couple hours, volunteers were having a tough time stacking donations.

"The trucks are filling up. It's just wonderful," said church member Julie Cook. "That's a wonderful problem to have."

The church is calling it their "Day of Hope," and it is no coincidence that they're doing it now.

"During tough economic times, we want to show our community that we want to be a blessing to them," said church member Matt Clark.

Organizers started out by asking several area charities exactly what they needed.

"We wanted to meet those needs -- not just give them a bunch of junk, but give them things that they really need," said Clark.

"I brought all the clothes that I could spare. Some stuff that's in great condition, too, that I would like to wear but I think some other people can use it more than I can," said church member Sabrice Guerrier. "That's what Christ would do, so that's what we do."

In all, the church had two tractor trailers and a pair of U-Haul trucks in three different locations.

The donations are slated to go towards the following groups:

* Durham Rescue Mission
* Life Care Pregnancy of Raleigh
* Pregnancy Support Services of Durham/Chapel Hill
* Second Mile Ministry of Durham
* Raleigh Rescue Mission

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