SACO — On Wednesday, local veterans received a friendly visitor bearing gifts.

Nancy Kelley, on behalf of the group Hugs of Love, delivered donations of toiletries and $400 worth of gift cards for Walmart, Amato’s and Hannaford to the Arthur B. Huot House.

The Arthur B. Huot House, operated by Volunteers of America Northern New England, provides 10 efficiency apartments for homeless veterans. Residents stay about two years or until they can secure the resources needed for long-term, stable housing.

The gifts were going to be divided between the Huot House and the Veterans Career House in Biddeford.

Kelley is a familiar face at the residential facility, and was greeted with much enthusiasm by staff and residents. Among her other efforts, she organizes the making of holiday gift baskets and brings them in to residents.

“We all know her,” said resident Gary Belanger. “She’s a very nice person to come in here all the time.”

The gifts were received with many words of thanks from grateful residents.

“It helps out a lot,” said Belanger.

Program Manager Michael Merrill said some of the residents have difficulty affording basic necessities, and Kelley’s efforts mean a lot. Hugs of Love not only helps the residents financially, but it shows that people in the community care, he said.

“It warms our heart and makes things a little easier (for the residents),” he said.

Kelley said she enjoys helping the veterans.

“It makes me happy,” she said.

Kelley, a Gold Star Mother from Old Orchard Beach whose son, Army Capt. Christopher Cash, died in service in Iraq in 2004, started Hugs of Love six years ago, with the mission to support those who are serving and have served the country, and their families.

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.