Change, dollar bills and personal checks were dropped into the outstretched boots of firemen Saturday afternoon, also to benefit victims of terrorist attacks on New York and Washington.

And from the coffers of nonprofit organizations and local churches, contributions rolled in throughout the weekend, bringing the city closer to its goal: to raise $1 million in one week for those most affected by the acts of terrorism at the World Trade Center and Pentagon on Sept. 11.

''People are giving from their hearts, and that's what really counts,'' said Mayor Bob Young, who has championed the weeklong effort as a lofty but achievable mission for the Augusta area.

Today marks the last day of the campaign.

As of Sunday afternoon, the city had counted more than $600,000 in contributions, a number that rose over the weekend as collection efforts continued throughout the community.

Among those contributing were members of local chapters of the Hindu Temple Society, Indo-American Cultural Association, Swami Narayan Temple and St. Mary's Syrian Orthodox Church, who together presented a $10,000 check to the mayor for the effort.

Area mayors, Augusta commissioners and several local firefighters are expected to travel to New York on Thursday to hand deliver the proceeds from the Care and Prayer Crusade to Mayor Rudolph Giuliani.

Those wishing to contribute can mail donations to the mayor's office at Care and Prayer Crusade, c/o Mayor Bob Young, 530 Greene St., Augusta, GA 30911. For more information, visit the city's Web site at www.co.richmond.ga.us/mayor or call 821-1831.

Reach Heidi Coryell Williams at (706) 823-3215.