LOMBARD, Ill. – State Rep. Terra Costa Howard, D-Glen Ellyn, recently met with members of the VFW Lilac Post 5815, to talk about issues that are important to local veterans and announce her partnership in their annual drive to send gifts and personal items to servicemembers who are spending the holidays on active duty overseas.

“We are fortunate to have so many veterans living in our communities, inspiring us with their patriotism and commitment to service,” said Costa Howard, who serves on the House Veterans Affairs Committee. “It’s important for our state government to recognize our veterans’ service by providing adequate medical and mental health services, assuring the safety of our veterans’ homes, and expanding job opportunities for veterans and their spouses. I’m grateful to our local veterans for taking time to share their concerns and supporting my efforts to better represent their interests in Springfield.”

Costa Howard is partnering with VFW Lilac Post 5815 and its Auxiliary by collecting donations to for holiday packages to send to servicemembers on active duty overseas. She is asking community members to donate travel-sized toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, shaving cream, toothbrushes, toothpaste and razors), Halloween candy, nonperishable snacks (beef jerky, pepperoni, trail mix and salami), and crossword and word search puzzle books.

Costa Howard will accept donations from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at her constituent services office, at 913 S. Main St. in Lombard. Residents may contact her to arrange an alternative donation time by calling 630-812-9292 or emailing RepTCH48@gmail.com. Donations will be accepted through October and November.

“It’s an honor to partner with Lilac Post 5815 to support the men and women serving our country overseas,” Costa Howard said. “These boxes bring a little bit of joy to our military personnel as they spend the holidays away from the people they love. These gifts may seem small, but they let our brave men and women in uniform know that we’re thinking about them and we’re grateful for their service and dedication.”