State Senator Patty Ritchie today announced that she has collected more than 7,800 cards to be sent to US soldiers through the “Holiday Mail for Heroes” program sponsored by the American Red Cross. 

Cards—which were donated by schools, local businesses, community groups, and individuals as well as County Clerk’s offices—will be distributed to service members at military installations, veterans hospitals and other locations. 

“I’m thrilled that Central and Northern New Yorkers decided to help out with this very important program again, topping last year’s number of 2,200 cards and more importantly, sending warm wishes to those who need it most this holiday season,” said Senator Ritchie.

“ Our troops sacrifice so much to protect our freedom.  This is just one very small way to show them we care and that we are thankful for their service.”

This is the second year in a row Senator Ritchie has partnered with Ogdensburg native and Albany area radio personality Melody Burns for the effort.  

(Senator Ritchie is pictured in the above photo with members of Patrick Robbins’s and Tina Hathaway’s 3^rd grade classes at Carthage Elementary.)