Selectman Sponsors Simsbury Holiday Collection Drive for Veterans’ Home

Deputy First Selectman John K. Hampton is once again sponsoring the Town of Simsbury Holiday Collection Drive for the state Veterans’ Home in Rocky Hill, now in its seventh year.

“I am pleased to carry on this tribute to our state veterans. I feel it is fitting to recognize them by meaningful action, by offering up some support to those who may be in need at this time. This has become a nice tradition in town and grows bigger every year. I am overwhelmed by the generosity of Simsbury residents,” said Hampton.

The drive will commence on December 15 and will continue until December 31.

The Veterans’ Home currently provides care and shelter for approximately 500 veterans, nine of whom are women. These include veterans who are otherwise homeless, needy or disabled and require long-term medical care.

Started in 2004, this campaign seeks clothing, personal items, and accessories. Clothing needs include casual pants and jeans, shirts and sweaters, as well as lounge pants, underwear and socks. Shoes and slippers are also appreciated. (PLEASE NOTE: The Veterans' Home now only accepts NEW items with tags.)

In addition, toiletries are welcome. This includes shaving kits, shampoos and deodorants, lip balms, combs and brushes. Other popular items are games, craft kits, CDs/DVDs, as well as stamps, photo albums, flashlights or batteries.

“This effort shows our veterans how much we care and how grateful we are to them — and that we haven’t forgotten them,” said Hampton.

Residents may leave contributions in specially marked collection boxes set up throughout town. A complete list of gift suggestions will be attached to each collection box, and is attached as a PDF to this story and can be viewed or printed out. And is available on the Connecticut Department of Veterans’ Affairs website: http://www.ct.gov/ctva/lib/ctva/2010wish_list.pdf

Collection points will be at Eno Memorial Hall, the (Dispatch), and the . A special collection site for items for women veterans will be at , located at 1410 Hopmeadow Street.

For more information, please call Hampton at 860-803-4072 or e-mail him at jhampton@simsbury-ct.gov.