Veteran gifts deadline Friday

The Hill City Seniors are once again in search of donations for the Veterans Gift Shop to benefit those living in the veterans facilities in Hot Springs. The deadline of Friday, Oct. 16, is fast approaching, and organizers are encouraging local participation.

The donations will be placed into a pop-up shop for veterans to choose gifts to send to their loved ones at Christmas time.

“They take each vet shopping, and they pick out gifts for their family or friends,” said organizer Pat Forrer.

According to the flyer, items for men, women and children should be new, but not too expensive, and items that you would like to receive yourself, such as clothing, gloves, hats, toys, household items, books or personal items.

Handmade gifts are also welcomed. 

“They love to get handmade things,” said Forrer.

Price tags can remain in place as the value of the gifts may help the VA in receiving future grants.

Gift cards to national chain stores are a popular gift and are inexpensive to mail.

“Gift cards are wonderful if they are national chains because they can be used anywhere,” said Forrer. “Like Subway, Starbucks and Walmart.”

Monetary donations are also accepted to help with the cost of postage. Last year, the postage exceeded $2,500.

Things to avoid are perfume, make-up or scented toiletries. Also, nothing too heavy or breakable as items will be shipped.

Donations of wrapping paper, tape, tags and Christmas cards are also encouraged.

Items may dropped off at the Hill City Center, Community Lutheran Church, Little White Church or St. Rose of Lima.

For more information, contact Forrer at 605-939-8354 or at pjforrer@aol.com.