Since the Hastings veterans so generously made and served cookies and hot chocolate for the village's annual tree-lighting ceremony this year, Hastings recreation department assistant Lisa O'Reilly wanted to do something special for them.

"But everyone donates coats, hats, gloves--that sort of thing--to veterans during the holidays," she said. "I wanted to do something different."

O'Reilly called the New York State Veterans' Home in Montrose, NY and asked what else residents needed.

Sleepwear, they said.

Between now and Tuesday, Dec. 20, O'Reilly will be collecting both men's and women's pajamas for veterans at the home in Montrose. She already has an impressive collection of flannel PJ's, slippers and wooley socks...but she needs more.

"We're looking for clothing in all  sizes," she said. "It must be new."

Her husband and she will deliver everything they've collected on Wednesday, so they need all donations by Tuesday.

Help keep a veteran warm and comfortable this winter! Bring donations to the Hastings-on-Hudson community center between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.!

Between now and Jan. 1 Patch is trying to compile as many ways to volunteer and donate money, gifts and food for the needy.  Have an organization you want others to support?  Email it to me at elizabeth@patch.com.