New London's National Guard armory will once again be a drop-off point for the state's Operation ELF effort, Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman and the Connecticut National Guard announced on Wednesday.
The New London Armory is one of six locations in the state taking part in the effort, which is in its 10th year. Operation ELF aims to provide toys, cash, gift cards to grocery and department stores, cash, and donations of fuel oil and services such as snow removal to the families of military personnel who have recently been deployed overseas or returned to the state.
“Deployment for these brave men and women means many months away from their homes, their families and their jobs,” said Wyman. “I believe it is our obligation to honor that sacrifice by supporting them and their families when they are gone and when they return. I especially urge the corporate and business community to step up and not only make a real difference in the lives of those left behind, but give peace of mind to our troops overseas.”
Wyman said more than 700 Connecticut National Guard troops are currently serving in Afghanistan and other areas of Southwest Asia. She said the troops have more than 1,200 family members remaining in the state, including 400 school-age children.
Donations may be dropped off at the armory, located at 249 Bayonet Street, through Dec. 10. The hours for leaving donations are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
A holiday party at the William A. O'Neill Armory in Hartford will take place on Dec. 15 to give toys to the children of military families. For more information on Operation ELF, call 860-858-2677.
