Assemblyman Will Barclay’s office will again participate in an item drive for troops coordinated by Lois and LeRoy Bowen of the Pulaski Ladies Auxiliary.
—Handmade items, cards, cards from children and pictures from children. “Lois says they love to get cards from kids,” Barclay said.
—Halloween candy, candy canes, individual packages of cookies/crackers, tuna and chicken kits, DVDs, CDs, puzzle books, writing paper, phone cards (AT&T works best), disposable cameras, gum.
—Travel-sized hygiene products such as shampoo, soap, deodorant, baby wipes, shaving items, feminine products, nail polish, nail clippers, candles, lip balm and eye drops.
—Soups and hot drinks such as tea, cocoa, instant coffee.
—Power bars, granola bars, dried fruit, slim jims, beef jerky, instant soup, individual cocoa packets, powdered Gatorade, Kool-aid, individual packets of oatmeal cereal.
Through Dec. 9, items can be dropped off locally at Camillus Town Hall, 4600 W. Genesee St. The Pulaski VFW 7289 and the Ladies Auxiliary will combine donated items into care packages and stockings before shipping them.
“The troops appreciate the care packages,” Barclay said. “Soldiers often write letters, thanking the Post for their care packages. Others send group pictures back to the Post, with smiles on their faces, holding up items they received.
“This is the time of year when we start to examine our own personal level of donation — whether it’s time, talents or treasures. It’s inspiring to see parents and grandparents use this item drive as a way to teach their children or grandchildren about giving.”
Monetary donations for shipping are also welcome. Checks can be mailed to Pulaski VFW Post 7289, P. O. Box 151, Pulaski, NY 13142. Indicate on the bottom “Christmas for the troops.” The Post is a 501-C3.
