Shipping Packages to American Troops in Iraq

No matter your position on the war, there are currently more than 100,000 troops serving our country in Iraq. Our troops range in age from 18 to 50 and older. All ethnicities, education levels and genders are currently fighting at this very moment.

Why should I care? My son or daughter is not serving. A lot of people have this attitude; the war is only on television. It is not directly affecting my family. The average person is familiar with at least 100 to 300 people, even living in a small town. I assure you that someone that you know has a friend, spouse, or family member who is currently deployed, currently serving stateside, or may be on their second or third tour of duty in Iraq. The average time in Iraq is about 300 days. Picture someone just like you, struggling with their day to day reality away from their family, doing their job in Iraq.

Due to security risks, there is no direct address that you can mail a care package to. Exact postal addresses are given only to immediate family members of our military. However, there are several organizations that routinely send care packages overseas to Iraq. Each organization has different protocols on how they accept donations. Your family, favorite club, charity, or church can sponsor a care package drive. You can contribute through monetary donations. As little as $1 to $25 can help send a care package.

www.americasupportsyou.mil/americasupportsyou/index.aspx

www.anysoldier.com

www.operationUSOCarePackage.org

The above Web sites have several different programs that support the troops. One particular organization, sponsors the adopt a soldier program. This takes a small personal commitment on your part. You would need to take a few minutes out of each week to send a single card or letter, and one to two care packages every month the soldier is deployed. This would be a great family, school, church, or neighborhood effort. You can participate in this program by visiting www.soldiersangels.org . On the website there is a list of the most requested items. These items are available for purchase at cost on the website, and you can even include a personal note for your adopted soldier.

The most popular items include convenience items that are not readily available overseas. Such as sunscreen, snacks, prepaid international phone cards, travel size toiletries, and greeting cards.

Other organizations collect donations, or spend part of their profits to give monetary emergency assistance.

If you would love to volunteer your time and talents, there are several programs available. Many Web sites have volunteer positions listed on their Web sites. There are also volunteer opportunities that help assist the families of deployed service members. These programs help with school supplies, emergency services, and emotional support resources.

There are several different charitable organizations that are supporting our service members. Be sure to search and find an organization that meets a need that you feel passionate about. You can help our troops in Iraq by donating your time, money, and supporting businesses that send charitable contributions that directly assist our soldiers. It only takes a small amount of effort to tangibly reach, and show our appreciation to one of our troops in Iraq.