Benefits Veterans at Eagle Star Housing
Three Spencerport High School seniors recently led a donation drive in coordination with the Town of Ogden to benefit local veterans in need. On January 21, Jaxson Ryan, Christian Manfredi, and Nathaniel Trice approached the Town of Ogden with an idea for a service project as part of their Participation in Government class and asked to use the Town’s donation bin to collect much-needed items for Eagle Star Housing.
“When these boys showed up at Town Hall asking to use our year-round donation bin, we were thrilled to say yes and support this wonderful initiative,” said Ogden Town Supervisor Mike Zale. “In speaking with them about their project, it was clear they had taken the time to learn about Eagle Star Housing and the needs of the organization. Less than two weeks later, I’m proud to say the donation drive has been a tremendous success, with the Town’s donation box completely filled.”
Eagle Star Housing, based in Spencerport, has supported veterans and individuals experiencing housing instability since 2012, helping them achieve self-sufficiency throughout Upstate New York.
Despite winter storms and frigid temperatures, the community came out in full force to support the drive. Items collected included toiletries, winter clothing, hats, gloves, scarves, coats, boots, canned goods, blankets, and pillows.
When the students returned to Ogden Town Hall on February 2 to pick up the donated items, they were surprised by the volume of donations, even noting they might need a second vehicle to transport everything.
“On behalf of the entire Town of Ogden, I would like to thank Jaxson, Christian, and Nathaniel for the leadership, initiative, and compassion they demonstrated through this project,” Zale concluded. “They and their parents should be incredibly proud. A lot of credit must also be given to the community for repeatedly stepping up and contributing to important causes and donation drives here in town. Their efforts will make a meaningful difference in the lives of local veterans served by Eagle Star Housing.”
To learn more about Eagle Star Housing, visit www.eaglestarhousing.com.
The Town of Ogden’s next donation drive will run from February 2 through February 26 in support of the Westside Pet Food Pantry. Items being collected include cat and dog food, pet treats, and cat litter. The Town’s donation box is located at the entrance to Ogden Town Hall, 269 Ogden Center Road, Spencerport.
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