Support for Cell Phones for Soldiers drive continues to grow

From sadness comes hope as woman honors her nephew Florida - When Alixis Mendez Hull’s nephew, Cpl. Justin R. Garcia, died late last year in Iraq, the resident of the Village of Florida looked to honor his memory and his service. “Justin’s story is a poignant one and he left an inspiring legacy,” Hull said. “My family was very fortunate to have been able to receive phone calls from Justin while he was in Iraq. Those many calls meant so much to us then and even now. Fortunately, he did not have to limit his calls to his family. But many soldiers do. Providing calling cards to these brave men and women who are so far from home is a wonderful way to provide additional support and recognition.” So Hull contacted the corporate offices of ShopRite Supermarkets in an effort to expand the number of collection sites throughout the area. As a result, ShopRite agreed to become collection sites at their various locations in Warwick, Chester, Monroe, Middletown (both Wallkill and Dolson Avenue), and Vails Gate. Hull provided all the stores with collection boxes and volunteered to coordinate the pick-up of all collected phones. After being approached by Hull, Betsy and Ken Mitchell, owners of the Track 7 Postal Center located on First Street in Warwick, agreed to handle the shipping of the phones, as well as to become another collection site. Hull’s son, Zachary, has also joined in the effort to honor his cousin. He helped to decorate the collection boxes and accompanies his mother as she collects cell phones. Additionally, Zachary wanted to “do something to help the families of soldiers like Justin.” He recently celebrated his 8th birthday and suggested tribute donations to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund in lieu of gifts. Both Zachary and his mother recently visited the administrative offices of the organization in New York City to drop off the donations. Hull encourages other local businesses, civic organizations and schools to become regular collection sites or to host “cell phone drive days.” Applewood Orchards, owned by Hull’s father-in-law, David, is dedicating its upcoming season to the memory of Garcia, who worked at Applewood during his high school and college years. During September and October, anyone visiting Applewood who drops off a cell phone will receive a complimentary apple cider donut and a cup of cider. Hull has volunteered to arrange for the pickup and shipping of any cell phones collected in our area by any businesses or groups. For additional information, contact Hull via e-mail at friendofjustin@hotmail.com.