After the devastation caused by hurricanes, Haiti needs more help than ever.

The Tim Hardaway Foundation wants to help the people of Haiti during their time of need.

''Haiti needs help; it's tough down there,'' said Tim Hardaway, a Pinecrest resident and former point guard for the Miami Heat. ``They have no food, diapers or clothes. We need to give to people who truly need it.''

Students Offering Support (SOS) has partnered with the foundation to host a drive.

SOS consists of 12 area high schools, including Palmer Trinity, Gulliver Prep, Palmetto, Killian and Coral Reef.

Each class of the community organization has to partner with a group to do community service work.

The freshman class of SOS has chosen to partner with The Tim Hardaway Foundation.

''SOS does two drives a year and this drive is going to be one of our main events because Haiti was hit so bad by the hurricanes,'' said Lilly Watkins, SOS president.

``Our members are required to bring items to one of our drives and we are really encouraging them to bring items to this drive. Everybody is just really excited about this drive.''

Added Paul Laroche, chairman for The Tim Hardaway Foundation: ``Once Tim and I came up with the Haiti idea, all of a sudden SOS jumped on board, then Food for the Poor and JJ's American Diner came along.''

With a location, food and students, the drive was set.

On Friday from 4 to 6 p.m., JJ's American Diner, 1450 S. Dixie Hwy., in South Miami, will host the drive.

Clothing, blankets, first aid supplies, perishable food, shoes, construction material and toiletries will be collected.

Even after Friday's event, SOS will continue collecting items.

''This is something we will continue throughout the year,'' said Valerie Watkins, co-parent advisor for SOS.

``A gentleman has a warehouse by Tamiami Airport to hold items. He gives to Haiti all the time so he has a transportation system already set up.''

The Tim Hardaway Foundation also will continue to support by offering ''drop off locations'' where people can bring items.

For more information about the drive, call Paul Laroche at 305-546-7658.

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