The Leo Center, a Christian-based nonprofit organization in Lawrence, is heading to a New Orleans suburb to help with the Hurricane Katrina clean-up.

After a group of Lawrence pastors visited Gretna, La., two weeks ago, they decided the area could use their help.

“We saw a distinct need,” said Mike Godard, of Morningstar Church.

Godard will lead about 15 volunteers from six Lawrence area churches to the area on Oct. 15. The volunteers will be working with the School of Urban Missions to help bring people back into their homes and clean up the area.

Godard said the group needs donated branch-cutters, chainsaws and anything that can clean mold as well as vacuum cleaners and work gloves. A full list of needed items can be found at leocenter.com.

From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, Lawrence residents can drop off items at the Leo Center’s back parking lot. Items also will be collected from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday.