(HALFMOON, N.Y., Dec. 23): American Legion Mohawk Post 1450 Commander John Lepine announced that the post has made its annual Christmas donations of over $13,500 to local charities and nonprofit organizations in December.

Contributions totaling over $8,000 were made to local family- and youth-oriented organizations such as the Saratoga Center for the Family, Regional Food Bank, CAPTAIN Youth and Family Services, Make-a-Wish Foundation, Community Hospice, Double H Ranch, and Shenendehowa Helping Hands, St. Edwards Church Food Pantry and other local food pantries.

Additionally, the post helped support our veterans by donating over $5,000 to Stratton VA Hospital's adaptive sports program and Veterans' Holiday Committee, the National Honor Guard, and the homeless men's and women's veterans facilities in Ballston Spa.

The donations were made possible through membership support, the Bell jar, Monday night bingo and other fundraising activities during the year, and we sincerely thank all who continue to support these activities.

These annual December gifts are in addition to approximately $8,000 in ongoing contributions made throughout the year in support of the local community.