How to Send a Care Package to a Soldier

Show the men and women deployed around the world that you care about the sacrifice and service they bravely provide. Make a commitment to send 1 or 2 packages a month. Here are some cheap (or even free) ways to get you started in the right direction. All it takes is time, compassion, a willingness to give, and a little elbow grease! Make a stranger a friend and pay it forward today!

Things You'll Need

• Willingness to Give
• Research Skills
• A Little Creativity

Instructions

1. Condiments for MRE's:
   Soldiers need to carry a lot of items. Many prefer and often request trial and sample sized quantities. Everything from condiments to shampoo' s and conditioners!
   Save condiment packets from restaurants to spice up MRE's. Soy sauce, catsup, etc.
   Be sure and pack in zip lock bags in case they break!
   Ask local restaurants for to donate condiment packs.

2. Conduct a neighborhood scavenger hunt:
   Many sites offer a "most requested" list sent by the soldiers. Before you rush out and buy all the items on that "shopping list" try your own neighborhood first! Have kids go through the neighborhood asking for donations. Give the list to your kids/grandkids and let them go through your house! You may also conduct a neighborhood drive by asking a grocery store for brown bags and stapling the shopping list to it. Write on the list a day that you will drive by and collect the bags left on front porches. This could also be done through a church or school, handing each person a bag with list.

3. 

   Call your local professionals:
   Call your dentist and ask for a donation of toothbrushes, floss, toothpaste and mouthwash
   Ask other dentists, too. Call your medical doctor, dermatologist, etc. and ask for samples!

4. Collect hotel and sample sized toiletries:
   Everyone has a bag full at home! Ask your local drug store for free samples of lotion, etc. At conventions, ask those with you to give you their unused toiletries. Casinos will donate playing cards. Ask insurance and real estate agents for small calendars. Talk to your letter carrier about extra in the mail samples, too. Ask your neighbors, church, and club groups to collect items, too. Be creative!

5. 

   Special touches:
   Bake, Wrap, and Write all those extra little things we would miss if we were in their shoes. This is the time to start assmblying all the goods you've aquired. Make it special! Make it truly a one of a kind.

6. Find a Soldier:
   Check out the websites below. There are literally hundreds of organizations that will give you the information of a deployed soldier who's needs are currently going unmet. Sponsor one or hundred. Do your part for the brave men and women around the world who risk life and limb to defend our freedoms.

Tips & Warnings

• Make a commitment to write your soldier(s) once a week and send at least one care package (preferably two) a month.

• Many of these sites give you the option of donating money to cover expenses.

• Signing up to sponsor a particular soldier is free. Simply fill out a small application form and you will be matched up with someone who needs you.

• All the sites are very clear on how to address your package and what you can and cannot send. However if you have additional questions -ask your local post office.

Resources

• America Supports You
• Soldiers Angels
• Any Soldier