Write to a Serviceperson

Today there are 2.1 million Americans serving in the United States military. Many of these dedicated soldiers are serving in remote parts of the world where they are not only cut off from their family and friends, but also from the culture they are defending. This means they do not have access to many of the items we use everyday. It also means that they are more susceptible to homesickness. Although they can be very busy at times, there is also a lot of downtime. The remote areas where soldiers are needed most do not provide entertainment. Your gift can help soldiers relax during their downtime, can provide them with a piece of home, and most importantly, it will let them know that we care about them and appreciate what they do.

Your plan of action should start with determining how you can be of service. If you would just like to donate money, the USO will send a care package if you donate between 15-250 dollars. If you have time to donate, you may want to collect items for a care package or contact your local family readiness group to help them collect and pack items to ship. Do research either by browsing websites such as anysoldier.com or thesoldiersfamily.com to find out what items are most commonly requested by soldiers. Some items that are often requested include personal care items such as body wash, toothbrushes, mouthwash, baby wipes, and travel size laundry soap. Soldiers also appreciate phone cards and blank CDs that can be used to communicate with those back home. Some foods that are requested include Pringles chips and beef jerky. Finally, you can provide warmth to those who brave the element by sending hand and foot warmers.

I met up with a group called Operation Write Home that makes cards to send to soldiers overseas.  I found the group using social media.  There was also an article about their goodwill in a local newspaper.  The group meets once a month and makes seasonal, birthday, and greeting cards.  The group even includes an active service member.  The cards are designed by two of the group members, both of whom have won awards for their creations.  Volunteers cut out the squares and shapes using a die cut machine and piece together replicas of the designs.  Cards are made with paper, ribbons, foam, and other accessories.  The only thing that is not used is glitter because it can be seen with night vision and could endanger a soldier.  It was easy work and very enjoyable to sit and visit with others.

 http://operationwritehome.org/anyhero/