Oneida County Annual Christmas Drive to Benefit Connected Community Schools

County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. announced today that this year’s annual Oneida County employee Christmas donation drive will benefit Connected Community Schools by collecting items for children and teenagers in need.

"Each year, the generosity of our Oneida County employees reflects the true spirit of the season," Picente said. "This year, we're proud to support Connected Community Schools, an organization making a profound impact on the lives of local students and families. Together, we can help ensure that their vital work continues to strengthen our community and brighten the holidays for those in need."

Oneida County employees will be purchasing items such as toys, make-up, electronics, jackets, hats and gloves for children and teenagers. Those donations will then be turned over to Connected Community Schools, which will be supporting thousands of children and their families during the holiday season. Connected Community Schools distributes the donations it receives in a toy store fashion, where parents/caretakes come in and shop for their children.

“This is yet another difficult year for many, some still coming up and overcoming the hurdles left by the tornado of Rome, but we will continue to provide support every day and soon provide many smiles with the help of our community,” said Melissa Roys, Co-Executive Director of Connected Community Schools. “We are always grateful for the tremendous relationship we have with Oneida County and the support they continue to provide. We are always better together.”

“Through our Connect-A-Kid Holiday Assistance Initiative, our team in collaboration with the community is able to provide joy to many children and families through the holiday season which for many can become a very stressful time of year,” said Danielle Martin, Co-Executive Director of Connected Community Schools. “The immense gratitude during this holiday season from individuals is humbling to say the least. Our team is honored to have the relationship and support of Oneida County and all the community partners that allow us to create this opportunity every year!”

The Connected Community Schools initiative works towards creating community schools with public schools. The mission focuses on ensuring that students and families’ basic needs are met with resources, tangible items and services figuratively or physically accessible within the schools. The Connected Initiative includes the Adirondack, Canastota, Camden, Central Valley, Dolgeville, Herkimer, Holland Patent, Madison, Mt. Markham, New Hartford, Rome, Waterville and Sherburne Earlville school districts. For more information on Connected Community Schools’ mission and services visit https://connectedcommunityschools.org/.

Oneida County Government conducts a Christmas drive each year to benefit a local charity. The generosity of its workforce has helped to make the season brighter for many individuals, children and families in need throughout the community. Past donations have benefited organizations such as Thea Bowman House, Mother Marianne’s West Side Kitchen, YWCA Mohawk Valley and Hope House.