Care Packages for Deployed Soldiers Deadline Extended

Submitted by Betsy Barnes

The "CARE PACKAGES FOR SOLDIERS" program needs many small, individually packaged items to make a big impact on our deployed troops stationed all over the world. The deadline set for August 12th has now been extended to September 12, 2011.

"We have had excellent response and would like to exceed our goal," said RWC Chairwoman Louise Rauls who is leading this effort. Five hundred pounds is the goal set by the Republican Women of Central (RWC) who are partnering with the Blue Star Moms of Louisiana to send care packages from Central. This is a high goal, but one we can reach.

Collection of items and money for shipping is being accepted at four locations in Central from now until August 12. This donation drive will conclude at the upcoming "An Elegant Evening of Fashion" at Kristenwood in Central.

Shampoos, lotions, medicated foot powder, antibiotic and anti-itch ointment, muscle pain ointment, deodorant (non aerosol) shaving cream, razors, sunscreen (tube), eye drops, baby wipes, Q-tips, hand sanitizer, soap, lip balm are some of the donations needed in small, individual size containers.

Snack and food items needed are Rice CrispyTreats, Energy bars, sunflower seeds, nuts, microwavable popcorn, hot chocolate packets, powdered drink mixes for water bottles, easy open canned fruit, individual servings of peanut butter, fruit roll-ups, granola bars, trail mix, cracker jacks, coffee, tea, powdered Gatorade, canned chicken or tuna, gum, candy, beef jerky (no pork).

Stationery, books, magazines, crossword puzzles, pens, pencils, small notebooks, a personal note, cards, and letters of encouragement are also needed.

Drop off locations conveniently located in Central are: Bone Marketing, 12628 Hooper Road Suite B (between Joor and Shoe Creek Dr.); Central Christian Academy, 9739 Joor Road; Lockhart Insurance, 18571 Greenwell Springs Road (South of Magnolia Bridge Road); and Ross Tire and Service, 14330 Greenwell Springs Road (near Sullivan).

A complete list of items being collected and donation locations can also be found on RWC’s website at www.lfrw.org/republicanwomenofcentral and on the Facebook page for Republican Women of Central. Please share these sites with friends and family who may also want to contribute to this effort.

If you or someone you know would like to be added to the RWC email list and learn about future events, donations to our deployed troops, information about membership, sponsorship or questions, please contact [email protected].