Utica, NY – Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon today, in partnership with the Utica Comets, Utica City FC, Save of the Day Foundation, and the Fire and Police Departments of the Cities of Rome and Utica, kicked off her 7th Annual Winter Accessories Drive at a press conference held at NBT Bank Arena at the Utica Memorial Auditorium, announcing this year’s effort to provide warmth and comfort to families throughout the Mohawk Valley this winter.

Now in its seventh year, thanks to the generosity of the community and the continued support of our partners, the drive has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated winter traditions, gathering new hats, gloves, mittens, scarves, and warm socks for families across the Mohawk Valley.

Assemblywoman Buttenschon spoke about what drives this initiative year after year, saying,

“Seven years in, this drive still comes back to the same thing: neighbors showing up for neighbors. Every scarf and every pair of mittens collected in a reminder of how much this community looks out for one another. I am grateful to our partners and to the community for helping make sure no one in the Mohawk Valley has to face the cold alone this winter.”

Assemblywoman Buttenschon extended her gratitude for the continued partnership of the Utica Comets, Save of the Day Foundation, and Utica City FC, whose collaboration and commitment have helped grow the drive each year.

“We are excited to partner with Assemblywoman Buttenschon for her annual Hat & Mitten Drive. Each year, we ask our incredible fans to help support this important community initiative by donating new hats and mittens at our home games. A simple donation can make a meaningful difference for someone in need, and we encourage all of our fans to join us in giving back to our community.” ~~ President Adam Pawlick, Utica Comets.

“Utica is a community that takes care of its own. We’re proud to support Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon’s Hat & Mitten Drive and help make sure local children and families have the warmth they need this winter. Together, even a small act of kindness can make a big difference.” ~~General Manager Tommy Tanner, Utica City FC.

In addition to Utica Comets home games and the Utica State Office Building, with the continued support of the Rome and Utica Fire and Police Departments, donation bins will once again be placed at numerous locations throughout the Mohawk Valley, making it easy for residents to contribute throughout the collection period.

Assemblywoman Buttenschon closed her remarks with thanks to the partners who make the drive possible each year, saying,

“To the Comets, UCFC, Save of the Day Foundation, our Fire and Police Departments, and every individual who donates, I extend my sincere gratitude. This drive only works because this community, the best in the State, keeps choosing to give.”

Donation Drop-Off Locations:

• Utica State Office Building: 207 Genesee Street, Utica
  • Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
• NBT Bank Arena at the Utica Memorial Auditorium: 400 Oriskany St W, Utica, NY 13502
  • During Utica Comets home games
• Rome Fire Department: 158, Black River Boulevard, Rome, NY 13440
• Utica Fire Department: Central Station, 552 Bleecker Street, Utica, NY 13501
• Utica Police Department: 413 Oriskany Street West, Utica, NY 13502
• Rome Police Department: 301 North James Street, Rome, NY 13440

The collection will continue through November, with donations distributed to local schools before the holidays.

Utica Comets Home Hockey Games Schedule:

• Home Opener Saturday, October 10 at 6pm vs Rochester Americans
• Saturday, October 17th at 6pm vs Laval Rocket
• Friday, October 30th at 7pm vs Wilkes-Barre Scranton Penguins
• Sunday, November 1st at 3pm vs Hamilton Hammers
• Friday, November 6th at 7pm vs Syracuse Crunch
• Saturday, November 7th at 6pm vs Rochester Americans
• Wednesday, November 11th at 6pm vs Belleville Senators
• Saturday, November 14th at 6pm vs Syracuse Crunch
• Wednesday, November 25th at 7pm vs Hartford Wolf Pack