By Ray Lenarcic
It’s that time again. Jake Frost is checking out who’s naughty or nice, while twin brother Jack is performing his works of art on our windowpanes and the bearded man in red is warming up the reindeer. That said, as it has for years, the Hunger Coalition’s Operation Candy Cane is off and running and needs your support again. The program provides gifts for our men and women in the military (and their children) who pass through the Cpl. Gregory Harris Courtesy Room at Syracuse’s Hancock Airport. Founder Laura Hailston thought back then that it’d be opportune to provide troops in transit who didn’t have time to stop for presents for their kids with something-and for them as well. She appealed to the public to consider dipping into their pockets to purchase gifts in the $5 to $15 range.
For Children: PJs (any size to c. age 12)-board games-barbies-hot wheels-action figures-coloring books-puzzles- crayons-infant/toddler toys-stuffed animals, legos.
For Troops: AA batteries-black/gray wool caps- thermal winter gloves (men and women)-puzzle books-soduko-trail mix-Dunkin or McD gift cards-beef jerky-hand and foot warmers-gray wool hunting socks-men and women’s thermal underwear (sizes S to XX L), manicure sets, body spray, blanket throws.
All items must be brand new and unwrapped. Holiday wrapped drop-off boxes are available from now until December 6th at Kinney stores in Ilion (Central Plaza) and Little Falls, (Albany St.), the City Clerk’s office at 659 E. Main St. Little Falls (thanks Kira) and MOVAC (Rte. 5S Mohawk). All locations are accepting gifts now.
Christmas is a time for giving. Let’s show our appreciation for the men and women willing to give their all by supporting Operation Candy Cane. See a vet-thank the vet.
Happy Holidays-Laura Hailston and Ron Schoonmaker (Vietnam Combat Medic)-Co-Chairpersons