The drive has specific acceptance requirements set by the hospital. All donated items must be new, have tags and contain no alcohol-based products. Residents are asked to contribute only items on the requested list so that the donations can be accepted and distributed to veterans.
Needed toiletries include body wash, deodorant, men’s razors, shaving cream, toothpaste, toothbrushes, body lotion, shampoo, conditioner and sunscreen. The groups are also collecting new men’s and women’s undergarments in sizes small through 4XL; packs of men’s T-shirts in sizes small through 3XL; seasonal clothing such as shirts, sweatpants, sweatshirts, gym shorts and light jackets; slipper socks; and shower shoes, excluding flip-flops.
Additional requested items include men’s and women’s sneakers, men’s work boots, adult coloring books and other art supplies. Gift cards from Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Dunkin’, McDonald’s and Cinemark are also welcome.
East Hanover residents can drop off donations during regular business hours at the East Hanover Public Library, 415 Ridgedale Ave. Collection locations are also available in Whippany at American Legion Post 155, 13-23 Legion Place; the Hanover Township Community Center, 15 N. Jefferson Road; and Retro Fitness, 60 S. Jefferson Road.
The collection began Sept. 8 and concludes Oct. 21. Organizers encourage residents to check the flyer before donating to help ensure every item meets Lyons VA Hospital’s requirements.