The Great Bend Military Moms are preparing to send another shipment of care packages to those serving in the war zone areas, group founder Leslie (Halbower) Barrett said. These areas include Iraq, Kuwait, Afghanistan, and Africa.
“If you know of anyone currently deployed to any of these areas, please let me know ASAP,” she said. They will ship them a box filled with food, snacks, personal care items, beef jerky, nuts, CDs, DVDs, books, games, toys, drink mixes and lots of love and support from all of us back home.
“They all deserve to know they are loved and appreciated for serving this wonderful country of ours, and serving so far away from home and loved ones, while fighting for the cause of freedom around our world,” she said. “Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers, along with the families who so desperately miss them.
always be thankful for your freedom, and those who are willing to protect it.”
The organization began as a planned “one time shipment” in November of 2003. But, it took on a life of its own.
“To all of you that have contributed over the last 12 years, thank you so much,” she said. “None of this could take place without the wonderful support our local communities have given to the project.”
The names of all contributors are added to the long list attached to a letter of appreciation included with each box. The submitted addresses will be kept confidential, she said.
Financial donations have come from individuals, families, memorials, schools, clubs, scouts, service organizations, and some stores and businesses, she said. Every dollar donated is used for purchasing the contents and for shipping charges. Each box costs around $50 including items and shipping.
The will also send extra boxes to chaplains of units, and others who can distribute them to those men and women, who don’t have access to necessities or don’t receive mail from home. “It is heartbreaking to learn about them, so we do our best to send enough to be shared and enjoyed by all,” Barrett said.
Addresses and donations can be mailed to Great Bend Military Moms, P.O. Box 432 Great Bend, Kan., 67530
For more information, contact Barrett at 620-792-2838.
