Utica, NY – In a heartfelt celebration of community and compassion, and just in time for the holidays, New York State Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (119th District) joined with local partners this morning at the Adirondack Bank Center to deliver hundreds of donated hats, gloves, mittens, scarves, socks, and food items to pantries across the Mohawk Valley as part of her 6th Annual Winter Accessories and Food Drive.

Representatives from the Utica Comets, the Save of the Day Foundation, the Utica City Football Club, Hannaford Supermarkets, Kada’s Promise, local food pantries, and local first responders came together to mark the successful conclusion of this year’s drive, a community tradition that has helped ensure that no family in the region is left cold or hungry during the winter season.

Assemblywoman Buttenschon reflected on the initiative’s impact, saying, “Every winter, I am reminded of the incredible generosity and compassion that defines the Mohawk Valley. This drive is so much more than the collection of hats or food, it’s about community, kindness, and unity. It’s about neighbors helping neighbors, families helping families, and coming together to lift one another up. Because of the outpouring of support from our partners and residents, we can once again ensure that no person is left cold and no family goes hungry this winter.”

“This year’s Hat and Mitten Drive was a tremendous success thanks to the kindness of our fans and the strength of our partnership with Assemblywoman Buttenschon,” said Director of the Save of the Day Foundation Erica Esche. "The continued support from Comets fans at every game helped ensure that families in our community will have the warmth and comfort they need this winter. We’re proud to take part in this initiative each year, and we’re deeply grateful to everyone who contributed.”

Utica City Football Club General Manager Tommy Tanner added, “We’re grateful for the incredible support shown throughout this year’s Hat and Mitten Drive,” said Tanner. "Fans from both Utica City FC and the Utica Comets once again came together to help our community, and their generosity made this partnership a success. As the temperatures drop, these donations will make a meaningful difference for local families, and we’re proud to stand alongside our supporters in giving back.”

This year, the drive saw expanded partnerships and a record number of collection sites, including Utica and Rome Fire Departments, and Utica and Rome Police Departments, which served as 24/7 donation locations. The Assemblywoman emphasized how crucial these additions were in making the drive more accessible to the public, allowing residents to donate at any time of day or night.

“Our first responders are at the heart of our communities,” Buttenschon continued. “They serve our residents with dedication every day, and by opening their doors for this initiative, they helped make giving back easier than ever before. Their commitment truly embodies the spirit of service that this drive represents.”

Hannaford Supermarkets joined as a new and generous partner this year, donating a large supply of pasta and cereal to help stock local pantries throughout the winter. These donations, combined with the contributions collected across all locations, will benefit families served by local pantries throughout the region.

“At Hannaford, we care deeply about the communities we serve,” said Allison Burke, Director of Operations at Hannaford Supermarkets. “The annual Hat and Mitten Drive is a wonderful opportunity to support our neighbors in the Mohawk Valley by providing the essential supplies and nourishing food they need to thrive this winter season.”

In tribute to the life, legacy, and selfless devotion of Kadance Frederickson to children facing difficult circumstances, Kada’s Promise also joined as a new and charitable partner this year, generously donating hundreds of teddy bears to this year’s drive. The bears, which will be distributed alongside the winter accessories, will offer a special layer of joy and comfort this holiday season to the children and families who need them most.

“Being the New York Ambassador for Kada’s Promise is truly one of the greatest blessings of my life,” said Emily Spatto, Kada’s Promise New York Ambassador. “This partnership has shown me the impact one person’s legacy can have, and what a difference love and something as small as a teddy bear can make in a child’s life. I am honored to continue sharing Kadance Frederickson’s message and to help her light keep shining,” she added.

This year’s drive collected hundreds of winter accessories and non-perishable food items thanks to the generosity of local residents and businesses. Donations were received from across the region, including bins placed at the Utica State Office Building, the Adirondack Bank Center during Comets and UCFC home games, Hannaford Supermarkets, and local police and fire stations in Utica and Rome.

Assemblywoman Buttenschon concluded the event with gratitude, saying, “I am deeply thankful to every partner and every person who donated. The Comets, UCFC, Hannaford, Kada’s Promise, our first responders, and the countless residents who continue to give so selflessly each year, you are the reason this initiative continues to grow and make a difference. Together, we are proving that when compassion and community come together, no family is left out in the cold.”