One thing I remember about my college days is the hopeful trip to the campus post office. Most days my tiny box held junk mail (at least someone out there knew I existed!) and an occasional bill or bank statement. But I always thumbed through the envelopes searching for the “golden ticket” that meant I had a package to pick up at the window.
A care package that might contain wonderful (and useful) surprises from home. Something I’d left behind on my last visit. A book. Quarters for the washing machine. Fabric softener sheets. Lip balm. Granola bars. Candy. Vitamins. (Honestly, I can’t remember the exact contents. Just that their arrival meant so much.)
Take that warm-fuzzy feeling of being remembered while far from home and multiply it times ten or more. That’s what our troops stationed overseas feel when they get a package.
But not every soldier has family willing or able to provide this precious mail. That’s where a national non-profit organization like Soldiers’ Angels steps in to offer that loving hand from home. Here’s a sampling of what they do:
- Adopt individual soldiers.
- Write letters.
- Bake homemade goodies.
- Send care packages.
- Provide first response backpacks for wounded.
- Provide phone cards so soldiers can call home.
- Send birthday cards.
- Sponsor baby showers.
- Send gourmet birthday cakes.
- Handmade canes for the wounded.
- Care for stateside families.
- Handmade pillowcases for hospitalized warriors.
- Scarves for dust or heat protection.
- Blankets for deployed, veterans, and wounded.
- Send holiday decorations overseas.
How can you get involved?
Check out the Soldiers’ Angels organization for ways to donate your time, money, or collect/send needed items. Many local churches do something similar for soldiers (and families) from their congregations. Maybe volunteer to send one package every other month and get a few friends to fill in the gaps. Organize a collection and packing party.
Can you imagine the joy of a soldier receiving such precious mail? Now, that’s being like a tree and reaching out to comfort others!
What about you? Do you know a soldier or veteran or their family? Have you considered sending a letter or care package? What other ideas would you suggest?
