Veterans Office Seeks Items, Letters for Troops

‘Operation Medford Cares’ Accepting Items
July 1 – August 27

Story Updated 10:47AM Monday, August 16, 2010

Medford’s Veteran Services Office is seeking donations to create care packages for Medford’s men and women serving in the armed forces in the Middle East and other parts of the world.

Like last year, “Operation Medford Cares” is looking for items that aren’t readily available for troops and that remind them of home, including everything from letters of encouragement to toiletries to DVD’s to candy to Kool Aid.

“This a great school project, church project, civic group project, and a really good way for Eagle Scouts & Girl Scouts to earn badges while building the moral of our troops! Sit down with your son, daughter, niece, nephew, grandchild, etc. and draw picture, or write a few short lines of thanks. It is a great way to teach a child about the importance of giving back, and about appreciating those who defend our freedom,” said Senior Clerk Marlene Aborn, speaking about the event last year.

According to information released by the Veterans Services Office, troops want letters of encouragement and thanks, used or new DVD/CD’s, used or new soft covered books, new AA batteries, and other things that remind them of home, etc. The office can accept only authorized items for donation.

Click here to see a list of items that are acceptable for donation.

“The office of Veterans Services realizes how important it is for the veteran to feel like part of his/her community, as well as for the community to have ties to our veterans. One of the best ways for this to happen is through community service. The Office of Veterans Services prides itself being able to put the community and the veteran together for a common goal…community enrichment!” Said a statement released by the Veterans Services Office.

Families and friends of loved ones serving overseas are also encouraged to contact the office with address information so they can receive a care package.

Donated items accepted in person at the Office of Veterans Services’ from July 1, 2010-August 27, 2010 ONLY (during normal business hours).

For more information or to volunteer, contact the Veterans Services Office at 781-393-2503. In addition, Aborn said people interested in volunteering to help assemble the packages can meet at City Hall in room 201 on August 30 between 11AM and 2PM to help.

– Information from the Medford Veterans’ Services Office.