HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- The Hanscom First Sergeant Council is working with the credit union here this holiday season to provide cold-weather clothing to children of military members and federal civilians on base.
Anyone wishing to donate may take a card off the tree inside the Main Exchange lobby beginning Nov. 22 and donate the gift by bringing it back to the Hanscom Federal Credit Union or the Base Exchange Customer Service Center by Friday, Dec. 12.
Hanscom first sergeants, the Airman and Family Readiness Center and schools on base are identifying those in need of winter clothing.
“Some military or civilian families living here may be new to the area and this is their first assignment to a cold-weather climate,” said Master Sgt. Ryan Francois, 66th Security Forces Squadron first sergeant. “The Hanscom Giving Tree Program is an opportunity for the base community to rally around personnel in need.”
The items most needed include jackets or coats, hats, mittens, scarfs and boots.
Organizers will also be collecting hats and gloves during a Hanscom Middle School holiday concert Dec. 18.
“These items will supplement the giving tree, and anything extra will be donated to the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless’ upcoming blanket and hat drive,” said Laura Galeski, HFCU social responsibility manager.
The Giving Tree Program, administered by the Hanscom Federal Credit Union, serves families with children age 16 and under through donations made by the community. The program is in its 20th year at Hanscom.
“The Giving Tree is one of many efforts the first sergeants take on to provide assistance to members of the base community,” said Francois. “We’re excited to once again partner with the credit union to keep our youngest members of Team Hanscom warm this winter.”
For more information on the Giving Tree program, or to identify a child, contact Francois at 781-225-5608 or any other first sergeant at Hanscom. Personnel may also contact Galeski at lgaleski@hfcu.org or by calling 781-698-2073.