Utica's Veteran's Outreach Center is now taking donations of old Christmas lights and used cell phones to benefit local veterans in need during the holiday season.

Executive Director Vincent Scalise says the lights and phones are recycled and those profits go directly to Vets for anything from new boots to new clothes for a job interview. He said none of those funds are used for employee salaries.

Scalise says he views the program as a win-win because now people will have a way to properly dispose of their old lights and phones without having to dig into their pockets, and all while responsibly recycling.

Anyone interested in donating, or any Vet who would like to take advantage of the program can do so at the Veterans Outreach Center on 726 Washington Street or visit the Veteran's Outreach Center website.

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