On January 27, 2014, Mark J. Palumbo lost his life to hypothermia.

To honor her son’s memory, Nancy L. Premo, Mark’s mother, organized the Mark J. Palumbo Memorial Clothing Drive. By collecting warm clothing and gear, she wanted to help prevent others from dying due to exposure.

“In life, Mark was such a giving person, always focused on helping others,” said Nancy. “Upon his passing and in his honor, I wanted to do something to turn this personal tragedy into something positive.”

When Nancy passed away in 2019, CenterState CEO committed to continuing the Palumbo Drive in honor of Nancy's love for the community. “It’s been truly heartwarming to see how this annual drive has grown, both in terms of participating organizations willing to support the cause, and the number of items collected that are helping provide for some of the most vulnerable in our community,” Nancy said.

CenterState CEO extends its sincere gratitude to these organizations for helping give back to the community while honoring the memories of Mark and Nancy. Click to see all participating locations.

Through February 28, participating businesses will collect coats, hats, scarves, gloves, sweaters, boots, warm socks, fleece, sweatshirts, vests and anything else to help someone stay warm. Collected items will be given to the Rescue Mission, ensuring that they directly support individuals in need of warmth this winter.

If your business would like to join the effort, please contact Christa Glazier at cglazier@centerstateceo.com and Olivia Watson at Olivia.Watson@RMSYR.org.

Individual donations of clothing items can be taken directly to the Rescue Mission Administrative Offices located at 155 Gifford St. Syracuse NY, 13219 or any of our Donation Centers.