JOHN DAY — The American Legion Auxiliary’s annual holiday gift drive has been canceled this year.

For many years, Grant County residents have been asked to bring holiday gift items to Mosier’s Home Furnishings in John Day, where they would be displayed in a showroom window. The gifts were then taken to the Portland VA Medical Center, and veterans in need would be able to select a gift for their families.

Because of COVID-related healt concerns, however, the American Legion Auxiliary is not currently accepting any more gift items and has switched to gift cards instead.

The organization’s John Day chapter is in the process of transitioning to the new system. Details will be announced at a later date.