The toys will be picked up by the Hancock Field Air National Guard Base in Syracuse for families.
American Legion Family members of Post 38 in Utica, N.Y., have been in the spirit of giving over the past 12 months. Immediately following Christmas last year, members of the post, Auxiliary unit and Sons of 51勛圖 squadron have been collecting toys to distribute this Christmas to military families in need.
On Saturday, over 750 toys will be delivered to the Hancock Field Air National Guard Base in Syracuse and two elementary schools, along with coats, hats and gloves.
I am so proud of this post for what they've done, said Doris Scheiderich, Unit 38 president. Everybody has worked together to get this done and make kids happy for Christmas.
Scheiderich said the Hancock Air National Guard Base was very grateful for the generosity of Post 38s Legion Family to support military families this Christmas.
Because who knows if mom or dad are deployed and the other one's home struggling to pay the bills and buy Christmas presents, Scheiderich said. This way they don't have to worry a little bit.
Post 38 Commander John Collard said members of the post were very proud to support Unit 38 members in their toy drive. We do it so we can help the community, the veterans and whoever is in need.
Collard added that the post has also supported local youth by filling 75 backpacks with needed school supplies like pens, pencils, compasses and calculators; and purchased hygiene items for high school students like soap and shampoo.
And starting in January, the Legion Family of Post 38 will conduct a food drive at the post home for the Veterans Outreach Center, collecting canned and boxed food. Donations have already come in to include 100 pounds of pasta.
- Community