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Presents in a Package: Bring holiday joy to deployed Kansas Troops
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As the festive season draws near, Volunteer Kansas encourages the public to support our deployed troops by participating in the “Presents in a Package” event. With an estimated 450,000 service members stationed overseas and over half of them not receiving a care package, there’s a critical need for our community’s involvement.

“It’s essential to show our Kansas men and women serving far from home that they are appreciated,” said Nola Brown, Executive Director of Volunteer Kansas. “Through ‘Presents in a Package,’ we aim to bring a touch of holiday cheer and comfort to those away from their families.”

There are three ways to get involved:

1. Submit Names and Addresses: Visit www.volunteerkansas.org and submit the names and addresses of deployed Kansas service members you wish to receive a free holiday care package. Deadline: Nov. 11, 2024.

2. Donate Items or Funds: Contribute non-perishable items (list can be found at bit.ly/PIAPEVENT) or make financial donations for postage by Nov. 13. Drop-off locations include Southwest National Bank branches and KAKE TV, located at 1500 N West ST, Wichita. Financial donations can be mailed to Volunteer Kansas, PO Box 781598, Wichita, KS 67278, made electronically via the Volunteer Kansas Facebook page, or dropped off at any Southwest National Bank branch.

3. Volunteer: Sign up to help assemble care packages on Nov. 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will take place at the Farm Credit Bank Building, 245 N Waco, Wichita. Information and sign-up are available at www.volunteerkansas.org.

“Being separated from loved ones during this special time of year can be difficult for our deployed service members as they miss the warmth and joy of holiday traditions. The public’s involvement in Presents in a Package will help boost their morale, comfort them, and enhance their well-being,” said Brown, who has been putting on the Presents in a Package event for five years and regularly receives cards and emails of thanks from those who receive the care packages.

A complete list of items being requested for donation and all information can be found at www.volunteerkansas.org.