Since the inception of Operation Support Our Troops in February 2002, our organization of volunteers has sent well over two million pounds of goods, treats and necessities to our deployed men and women in harm’s way. This holiday season is no exception. With the help of so many volunteers and supporters, we continue to send to thousands of troops and here is where I’m hoping you can help us.

In the past, a major corporation has always provided us with a very large donation to help us purchase items for the troops and to cover much of the postage. We have so appreciated their support and again counted on it this year. Right now we are in the midst of packing our holiday boxes and will have them ready for shipment on the 5th of December. Yesterday, I was contacted by this supporter that, although they will continue to support us, it will be on a much smaller level. Like everyone else, business is down and consequently, their ability to donate is also down. We have 155 boxes, weighing between 25 to 30 pounds each that we have promised to two units, one soldiers and one marines. Both units are in very dangerous outposts in Afghanistan and are counting on us to help them celebrate the holidays. Because of the major donor not being able to give us what he has in the past, we now do not have enough funds for the shipping. The post office’s best estimate of the shipping costs will be a little over $3,000.

Here is where I’m hoping you all can help. To ship one box will cost approximately $20, so if you can find it in your heart to “sponsor” a box, that would help immensely. It’s an easy Christmas gift to give a friend or family member. Just let them know than rather than fighting the crowds on Black Friday, you decided to sponsor a box to be sent to soldiers and marines fighting for something far more important than fighting the crowds , and that is our freedom. Many of you have sons and daughters that have received our boxes in the past ten years, you know how important care packages are to their morale, so sponsor a box for another soldier in their honor. If you are able to help in any way, it will be most appreciated. Just know that when a troop opens up their box, they will be smiling from ear to ear knowing that they have not been forgotten. Please share this e-mail with your friends, family and colleagues. Post it on your Facebook page, help us get the word out and hopefully,with all your help, we can raise this postage money in the next ten days, I know you won’t let our troops down.

To donate, checks can be sent to
OSOT,inc.
PO BOX 404
North Kingstown, RI 02852

or you can go to our secure website and donate at:

Operation Support Our Troops – Donate

Many thanks to all of you in advance for your generosity and caring.

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Steve Middleton is a community reporter and Charter Member with The Village Connector Community News. He is the Founder and President of World Connections, Inc. You can reach Steve at 410-544-3155 or via email at stevem@bigplanet.com.