Natchez Needle Arts is joining an effort that has a long tradition in the United States &045; knitting for the military troops.

As an ardent supporter of the military and a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary, Ann Tillman, owner of the needle shop at 508 Franklin St., wants to promote the knitting of wool caps, gloves and socks for American troops serving in places such as Iraq, Afghanistan, Kosovo and Korea as well as some parts of the United States, where winters are frigid.

Volunteers are needed to knit the wool caps. Tillman has the information at her shop and will offer yarn at the price she pays for it. &uot;I wouldn’t want to make a profit on a project like this,&uot; she said. &uot;But I really want to get people involved. I believe in this.&uot;

Tillman can provide knitters with instructions that have been issued through Web sites on how to make the helmet liners. The wool garments will be collected for the upcoming winter season.

Anyone interested in taking part in the project may visit the shop on Franklin Street or call 601-446-6587.