MANCHESTER, N.H. — On Dec. 16, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Field Operations (OFO) officers from the Boston Field Office delivered clothes and household items to veterans in need, closing a successful month-long Winter Clothing Drive.
“I am very proud of the CBP staff members who went above and beyond to make a difference for veterans in our local communities,” said Boston Director of Field Operations William Ferrara. “This effort, led by the Area Port of Boston Honor Guard, provided clothing and supplies at a time when they are needed most.”
goods were delivered to veterans in New Hampshire.
More than 335 gently used and newly purchased clothing and bedding items were donated to Liberty House Inc. in Manchester, New Hampshire. Additionally, over $200 worth of toiletries were also contributed.
“The month-long event was a complete success!” said Honor Guard Commander Christina Serva. “The donated items such as heavy jackets, pants, hats, gloves, boots, socks, blankets and sleeping bags, will help countless service members in the Boston area stay warm this winter. Liberty House staff members were amazed at the amount CBP donated, and were beyond thankful.”
“We are grateful for all of the generous donations received from CBP,” said Liberty House Director of Community Relations Bill Zarakotas. “It was fitting that the donation drop-off day was one of the coldest days of the year (single digit temperatures with wind chills below zero), a time when warm clothing is critical to those living with limited resources.”
Liberty House provides support and services to more than 250 homeless veterans. The house was originally donated to the Veterans of Foreign Wars by Annette Paczosa who had lost her brother, Private Harold Paczosa, in 1943 during WWII when a German U-boat torpedo struck the USAT Dorchester. More than 600 servicemen were lost.
Today, the house provides safe, supportive and substance-free housing for veterans. The staff and volunteers help veterans rejoin their communities and regain full and independent lives.