NY Senator Sue Serino Has Launched ‘Activity Drive’

HYDE PARK – NYS Senator Sue Serino today announced that she is launching an “Activity Drive” in partnership with the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie to collect new, unused toys and activities for the children and teenagers that reside there.

“The need to socially distance has been tough for everyone, but it can be especially difficult for our young people who are out of school and missing time with their friends and family,” said Senator Sue Serino. “May was National Foster Care Month, a time to recognize all the ways we can each play a role in enhancing the lives of youth in foster and residential care.

To continue that spirit beyond this one month, we are partnering with community organizations like the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie to help them in their mission of providing hope and healing to at-risk children here in our community. This ‘Activity Drive’ aims to help fight boredom during this tough time and give the kids there something a little different to look forward to.”

The average age of a child at the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie is 15 years old. Items that can be donated include, but are not limited to:

· Board games specifically geared toward this age group;

· Sports equipment (i.e., basketballs, soccer balls, frisbees, badminton sets, etc.);

· Art therapy adult coloring books;

· Art supplies;

· Young adult novels.

The drive will run through Friday, June 12th.

Individuals interested in donating can do so simply by driving up to Senator Serino’s District Office (4254 Albany Post Road, Hyde Park, NY 12538) on Friday, June 5th or Friday, June 12th from 9:00am until 1:00pm. Individuals interested in donating who cannot do so on those days can call Senator Serino’s District Office at 845-229-0106 to make an appointment to drive up and drop off items.

In an effort to keep everyone safe, drivers will be asked to wear masks and to not leave their vehicle. Upon arrival, residents can simply call Senator Serino’s office and a team member will meet the driver in the parking lot to pick up the donations. Those interested in donating, but unable to deliver them, should call the District Office or email serino@nysenate.gov to arrange to have donations picked up by a team member. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, only new and unused donations can be accepted.