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Governor Kathy Hochul announced the start of New York's annual holiday supply drive, which began on Saturday (November 1). The drive aims to collect toys, coats, school supplies, and non-perishable food items to support families in need across the state. Donations will be accepted until December 5, with extended collection at the Empire State Plaza until December 15.
This year's drive has expanded to include food donations due to recent challenges with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which supports nearly three million New Yorkers each month. Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of generosity during the holiday season, encouraging New Yorkers to donate and share holiday cheer with families in need.
Drop-off locations have been set up across the state, including the Corning Tower, State Capitol, Legislative Office Building, and Empire State Plaza Main Concourse in Albany. Additional sites are available in Syracuse, Rochester, Poughkeepsie, Utica, Buffalo, Binghamton, Watertown, and New York City.
The collected items will be distributed to community-based organizations serving underserved areas, ensuring that families receive support before the winter holidays. For more information and a complete list of drop-off sites, visit the NYS Holiday Drive information page.