Today, Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay (R,C-Pulaski) announced he and many local partners are launching the fifth annual “Stockings for Veterans” drive—a holiday season effort to collect personal-care items for veterans at the VA Medical Center in Syracuse. The drive is also an opportunity to stock much-needed supplies for the medical center, which can be given to veterans at the hospital throughout the year. Donations will be accepted from now until Monday, Dec. 16.

“This holiday season, it’s all about spreading kindness and giving. I’m thrilled to partner once again with the Oswego County Clerk’s Office, the Department of Motor Vehicles, Mexico Central School District, the amazing students from New Visions and many others to make a positive impact in our community. It’s truly a privilege to be involved in this effort,” said Leader Barclay. “This year, we’re inviting everyone—businesses, schools, local groups and individuals—to join us in honoring the veterans who have given so much to protect our country. Let’s come together to show our appreciation and offer a helping hand to those who’ve sacrificed for us.”

“This drive for personal-care items has really grown into something special, and we’re so thankful for the support from the community north of our center in helping the VA. The gifts and cards bring joy to the veterans during the holidays, and it’s truly touching to see the community come together and the veterans’ heartfelt thanks in return,” said Becky Jo Ross, spokesperson for the Syracuse VA Medical Center.

“I’m truly proud to play a role in giving back to the brave men and women who have served our country. Veterans in upstate New York often do not get the recognition they deserve, and this holiday season, they need our support more than ever. Working alongside Assembly Minority Leader Barclay and the VA Medical Center, we’ve set up donation sites and created lists to make it easier for the community to get involved. Our goal is to bring some extra warmth and joy to our veterans this Christmas,” said Oswego County Clerk Terry Wilbur.

This year, the “Stockings for Veterans” drive is looking to collect the following:

• Body wash 3-in-1
• Chapstick
• Gripper socks
• Sweatpants and sweatshirts
• Men’s slip-on shoes, sizes 9-11
• T-shirts
• Regular coffee
• Creamer-nondairy or powder
• Only new items will be collected.

Donated personal-care items may be dropped off at the following locations until Dec. 16:

• Leader Barclay’s District Office located at 19 Canalview Mall, Fulton, NY 13069
• Oswego County Clerk located at 46 E. Bridge St., Oswego, NY 13126
• The Fulton DMV located at 200 North 2nd St., Fulton, NY 13069
• The Oswego DMV located at 384 E. River Rd., Oswego, NY 13126
• The Pulaski DMV located at 2 Broad St., Pulaski, NY 13142