Three Queens council members have partnered to bring cold weather essentials for veterans in the borough.
Council Members Robert Holden, Vickie Paladino and Joann Ariola have partnered with local organizations to launch a Veterans Winter Drive for homeless veterans at Borden Avenue Veterans Residence.
From now until Dec. 16, constituents can donate new coats and jackets, gloves, hats, and other cold-weather essentials to five drop-off locations throughout Queens. The drive is a collaboration between the council members and the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 32, Ridgewood Kiwanis 3-2-1, Glendale Kiwanis, Broadway Stages, Brothers Helping, the Greater Ridgewood Youth Council, Maspeth Town Hall, Christ the King High School, and the VFW Post 551.
The trio of council members emphasized in a statement that during this season of giving, residents should give what they can to veterans who served for our freedoms. “Veterans should not be homeless, and this is a fight we must continue, but we should be helping these veterans. This winter drive will go a long way to keep them warm this winter,” Holden said.
Council Member Paladino shared that she felt disheartened that homeless and veterans could appear in the same sentence. “This holiday season, we must reflect on the profound sacrifices made by our veterans, whose service has given us the gift of freedom—something too often taken for granted. The very least we can do is ensure they have the essentials to stay warm this,” she said.
Council Member Ariola echoed their views. “The men and women who served our country put their lives on the line for us, and now it’s our turn to do something for them,” Ariola said. “By donating a coat this winter, you can remind a veteran that their service will never be forgotten and help keep them warm during the coldest days of the year.”
There are five drop-off locations throughout the district:
Council Member Holden’s District Office: 58-38 69th St., Maspeth
Member Paladino’s District Office: 20-15 Francis Lewis Blvd, Whitestone
Council Member Ariola’s Ozone Park Office: 93-06 101st Ave., Ozone Park
Council Member Ariola’s Rockaway District Office: 114-12 Beach Channel Drive, Suite 1, Rockaway Park
The Greater Ridgewood Youth Council: 59-03 Summerfield St., Ridgewood
More drop-off locations will be announced soon.
