HANCOCK COUNTY, Ohio — An initiative to spread cheer to active duty military has returned from hiatus for the holiday season in Hancock County.
The American Red Cross of North Central Ohio used to hold an annual care package collection event for deployed troops every holiday season. However, the initiative was shelved during the COVID-19 lockdown.
But this year, it is back and in full swing. Through Nov. 13, the Red Cross will be collecting common household items not commonly found on military bases.
"Basic things that we run down to the corner and grab when you need them," Todd James, executive director of The American Red Cross of North Central Ohio, said. "It's not so easy when you're serving on a military base in eastern Europe or in the horn of Africa, or wherever they may be this year."
The Hancock County Veterans Services Office is a partnering drop-off location, as many at the office also served in the military.
A gift from home can mean so much when you're deployed, but it's the gifts from the general public that come with a little extra boost, Hancock County Veterans Services Office Executive Director Nichole Coleman said.
"In some ways, it means a little bit more to get the items from some people you don't know at all," Coleman said. "Because it reminds you that there is an entire country back home that you are serving for."
Todd James said while the initiative was on a hiatus, his office was asked about holiday care packages all the time. Because of this, James and his staff are excited to use the logistics network of the Red Cross to spread some holiday cheer to those serving this coming holiday season.
"This is something that our team looks forward to. We really enjoy being able to bring even a little smile to our service members' faces during this time of year," James said.
if you are going to help during "Operation: Holiday Cheer" you're asked to follow the approved item donation list:
- Individually packaged snacks (examples include chips, cookies, chocolates, candy and holiday candy, crackers, nuts, trail mix, beef jerky, Pop-Tarts, pumpkin seeds and microwave popcorn)
- Ground coffee (no K-Cups)
- Protein powder
- Menstrual products
- Toothbrushes
- Toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Soap and body wash
- Laundry detergent sheets (no pods or liquid detergent)
If anything that is donated cannot be sent overseas, the American Red Cross will simply donate it back to another local non-profit.
The Hancock County Red Cross is located at 125 Fair St. in Findlay.
The Hancock County Veterans Center is located at 1100 E. Main Cross St. Ste. 123 in Findlay.
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