Archive: Around Town

Four local nonprofit organizations are helping families during the holidays at The Shops at Ithaca Mall.  The Salvation Army, Cops, Kids and Toys and Camp Good Days are working to provide clothing, toys and recreational opportunities to those in need, and the SPCA Annex is caring for animals in need of a good home.

The Salvation Army is continuing their annual Kettle and Angel Tree programs.   Kettles are located in the hallway next to Target, next to Regal Cinemas and the Old Navy Mall Entrance.  The Angel Tree program offers angel tags on its Christmas tree next to Customer Service, located by American Eagle.  Those wishing to help children in need are invited to take an angel tag, purchase the clothing and toys listed, and bring donations to the silver box next to the Christmas tree.

Cops, Kids and Toys is having a donation event on Saturday, December 15 from 10 am-8 pm near Toys R Us.  Visitors can meet McGruff the Crime Dog and local officers.  Monetary donations and new gifts will be accepted during this event.  Before and after the event, new gifts and toys for children can be placed in the green bin next to the Toys R Us entrance.  Gifts will be purchased as needed, sorted and packed by volunteers, and delivered by local officers to families in need on Tuesday, December 18 between 9 am and 4 pm.

Camp Good Days offers free camping programs and recreational activities in New York State to families dealing with cancer, sickle-cell anemia and violence.  While not seeking or supporting a cure for cancer, Camp Good Days’ focus is helping families celebrate life and its good days.  Their table is located next to the Old Navy Store, where they are selling small toys and accepting donations of any amount.

The SPCA Annex, located next to Christopher and Banks, is a no-kill shelter with cats, rabbits and rats in need of a good home.  Open from 11 am-7 pm Monday-Saturday, and 11 am-6 pm on Sunday, the Annex is currently offering a Choose Your Adoption Fee special, and all cats are spayed or neutered, vaccinated and medically cleared.  The Annex also offers a socialization area where those considering adopting an animal can handle and get to know the adoptee.  Special SPCA calendars featuring photos of their adoptees are on sale for $12 plus tax, and monetary donations are always welcome.

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