Hotels donating towels to inmates at Summit County Jail following cutbacks on linens

AKRON, Ohio - Three local hotels are donating gently used towels and linens to the Summit County Jail.

Sheriff Drew Alexander said the jail is in need of linens because the economic downturn forced the agency to make numerous cuts, including a reduction in laundry needs for inmates.

A staff member at the sheriff's office informed Alexander that many hotels discard serviceable towels that don't meet guest standards.

Last month, Alexander contacted area hotels and requested towel donations.

Sheraton Suites in Cuyahoga Falls and the Comfort Inn and Stay Place Suites in Copley have agreed to donate towels and linens.

"It works out actually for both parties for the hotels because they don't have to throw them away or dispose of them and it goes to a good cause and we're able to put them to use and it saves our office money," said Inspector Bill Holland.

Alexander said he plans to continue with the project.