Carrozza Collecting Gifts for Veterans

Former state Assemblywoman Ann-Margaret Carrozza is collecting gifts for Queens veterans as part of an annual drive she has hosted for more than 15 years.

Carrozza, who left office earlier this month after 14 years in Albany, said donations for veterans should be dropped off by Feb. 11.

“It would mean a great deal to our hospitalized and disabled heroes if you would choose to be their valentine by donating candy or cards with a message of appreciation,” Carrozza said.

Bayside doctor Robert Mittman and Flushing’s Jefferson Democratic Club are also taking part in the gift drive.

Drop off sites include Carrozza’s law office, located at 213-38 40th Ave. in Bayside, or Mittman’s Allergy & Asthma Family Care ofice at 38-21 Bell Blvd. in Bayside.

Gifts can also be dropped off at the office of State Assemblyman Edward Braunstein, D-Bayside, who replaced Carrozza in the Legislature. His office is located at 213-33 39th Ave., Suite 238 in Bayside.

Carrozza said donations should be valentine’s cards, sugar-free candy, toiletries or new clothing items, such as pajamas, robes, slippers and socks.

The former assemblywoman said she has been holding the drive since she was in college. She has also operated a toy drive during the holiday season since she first took office in 1996.

The gifts collected in the veterans drive will be handed out at the St. Albans Community Living Center of the VA New York Harbor Healthcare System as well as at the New York State Veterans Home in St. Albans.

Earlier this year, Carrozza announced that she would not run for re-election. Her district covered Douglaston, Little Neck, Bayside, College Point and Whitestone.

For more information on the gift drive, contact jeffersondems@gmail.com or call 718-224-4746.