SOUTHERN TIER (WENY) — New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Tuesday that the statewide annual holiday donation drive is officially underway. This year, the governor has expanded the drive to include food donations as well.
From November 1 through December 5, donations of new and unwrapped toys, coats, school supplies, and non-perishable food items can be dropped off at various drop-off locations across the Empire State. The governor’s office said these items will go to support families in need in New York State.
This year, the drive has been expanded to include food donations amid the pause in SNAP benefits due to the government shutdown. The governor’s office said nearly three million New Yorkers rely on SNAP every month.
“Generosity is a core value of the holiday season. New York’s statewide Toy and Coat Drive offers an opportunity to give back to our communities when it’s needed most,” Governor Hochul said. “I encourage all New Yorkers to consider donating to share hope, happiness, warmth, and holiday cheer with children and families in need.”
Donations will be collected between November 1 and the week before Thanksgiving to be distributed in time for the holiday.
Drop off locations in the Southern Tier include:
Henderson-Smith State Office Building, 107 Broadway, Hornell
Binghamton State Office Building, 44 Hawley Street, Binghamton
Donations can also be shipped to:
Empire State Plaza
P1 South Dock J
Albany, New York 12242
NYS Holiday Drive