RAPID CITY, SD – The West River Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP+) is seeking donations of winter apparel items for veterans at the Cornerstone Mission as part of the annual Make A Difference Day observance.

The Mission is seeking socks, underwear, hats, gloves and coats. Donation deadline is Wednesday, October 28 with both the Rapid City and Spearfish RSVP offices serving as collection locations.  The West River RSVP office is located at 333 Sixth Street and the public is advised to call 605-394-2507 to ensure someone is at the office to accept the donations.

A total of 1,060 items were collected as part of last year’s drive.

“Every donation makes a difference,” said Ann Hines, West River RSVP+ director. “Last year we received over one thousand items and we are again encouraging the public to help us support the veterans in our communities and for making a difference through service.”

Among the items requested by the Mission for this year’s collection drive:

•  New socks

•  New underwear with men’s boxers, sizes large to xx-large recommended

•  New women’s underwear, sizes medium and large recommended

•  Coats for both men and women, sizes large and extra-large recommended

•  Hat and gloves

Make A Difference Day is the fourth Saturday of October each year and is recognized nationally as a day of community service encouraging individuals, families, schools and organizations to support their communities through acts of service. For several years, West River RSVP+ has encouraged donations of clothing items for veterans at the Cornerstone Rescue Mission.

For more information about the donation drive or RSVP+, contact Hines at the RSVP Office at 605-394-2507 or ann.hines@rcgov.org . Hines said pickups of items can also be arranged.