Holiday toy drive kicks off

State Assemblywoman Ann-Margaret Carrozza, D-Bayside, said her office is for two holiday gift drives aimed at veterans and needy children in her district, which includes part of Little Neck.

Carrozza said the economic downturn of the past two years has not deterred borough residents from donating to the drives.

"We have another year where more people than ever need help," she said. "I think it's safe to say that it's difficult for many people to give that help. But, I'm seeing an increased willingness to pitch in and try. The only upside of a tough economy is that it often brings the small town out of us. People try to help their neighbors."

The assemblywoman has been holding the gift drives for veterans and children for the past 14 years. 

The deadline for both drives is Dec. 23.

For the veterans drive, Carrozza said her office is collecting items such as sugar-free candy, toiletries, puzzles, playing cards, socks, sweaters, pajamas, robes, slippers and various other items. Those gifts will be handed out to veterans 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 at St. Albans.

The assemblywoman is operating that drive with Queens chapters of the American Legion, Jewish War Veterans and Veterans of Foreign Wars.

For the toy drive, her office will deliver gifts to children in need throughout the community.

"The number one item for girls is anything having to do with Hannah Montana," she said. "For boys, we're getting a lot of requests for small racecars."

Gifts should be dropped off at Carrozza's office, located at 213-33  39th Ave. in Bayside, or at the Allergy & Asthma Center on 38-21 Bell Blvd. Donations can also be delivered to M&S Italian Food Specialists at 34-23 Francis Lewis Blvd.

"I have personally witnessed the smiles that donations have brought to the faces of thousands of hospitalized heroes as well as disabled and needy children," Carrozza said.

Carrozza said she would continue to hold the gift drives each year after she finishes her final term in the Assembly at the end of the year.

Earlier this year, the assemblywoman announced that she would not seek another term. Democrat Edward Braunstein, who defeated Republican Vince Tabone during the Nov. 2 election, will replace Carrozza on Jan. 1.

For more information, call Carrozza's office at 718-357-3588.