Gallatin group assembling care packages for troops
The holiday season is coming and some local groups and businesses are urging people not to forget about U.S. troops who can't make it home for the holidays.
This is the sixth year that Adopt-A-Sox will send care packages overseas. There are four drop boxes around town where folks can contribute to Christmas for appreciative Montana soldiers.
"They had heard that they were going to get a care package, but they didn't realize they were going to get a huge box and were overwhelmed by the support from the community. They love chocolate, especially this time of year and snacks that they can grab and go. They also love getting cards and letters, especially from small children. We've had a few pen pal relationships that started with our Adopt-a-Sox volunteers," Janice Parsley said.
The group offers suggestions for anyone wishing to donate items. Suggested items include personalized Christmas cards or photos and your email address; personal toiletries such as lip balm, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, insect repellant, sunscreen, eye drops, shampoo and dental floss and other items like CDs and DVDs, clip-on lights, travel alarm clocks, playing cards and games. Food items included in the stocking should be non-perishable and packaged, such as chewing gum, granola bars, or hard candy.