Veteran Care Packages: Christmas Edition
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With the holiday season around the corner, many of us are thinking of ways to give back, especially to those who serve far from home. One heartfelt way to show appreciation and spread holiday cheer is by sending a care package to a deployed service member. A care package is more than just a box of items—it’s a reminder that people back home are thinking of them and grateful for their service. Here’s how to build a great Christmas care package and where to send it for each branch of the military.
What to Include in a Christmas Care Package
When putting together a care package, think about items that will be meaningful and practical, and remind our troops of the comforts of home. Here are a few specific ideas for the holidays:
Festive & Fun Items
Christmas Decorations: Small, lightweight items like mini Christmas trees, garlands, and string lights can brighten up a service member’s space.
Holiday Cards & Letters: Personal notes, especially handwritten ones, make a lasting impact. Encourage family and friends to write messages of support.
Stockings: Fill a small Christmas stocking with fun surprises like candy, snacks, or small games.
Holiday Treats: Packaged Christmas cookies, candy canes, or non-perishable holiday treats are always appreciated. Just make sure they’re individually wrapped for freshness.
Practical & Comfort Items
Snacks and Drinks: Send shelf-stable favorites like beef jerky, protein bars, nuts, and powdered drink mixes.
Personal Care Items: Consider including travel-sized toiletries, face wipes, lotion, chapstick, or shaving kits. These essentials are useful and appreciated.
Entertainment: Books, crossword puzzles, and small board games provide much-needed downtime and relaxation.
Cold-Weather Gear: For those in chilly climates, hand warmers, cozy socks, and beanies are perfect winter additions.
Heartfelt Additions
Pictures from Home: Include photos of familiar places or happy moments, which can be comforting reminders of home.
Keepsakes or Small Mementos: Think of items like keychains, bracelets, or coins—small, meaningful things they can carry easily.
Where to Send Care Packages by Military Branch
Each branch of the military has its own address guidelines for sending care packages. Here’s how to get your care package to the right place:
U.S. Army
The Army has various programs for sending care packages to deployed soldiers. One helpful resource is Any Soldier, a program that connects you with Army units that need packages. You can visit AnySoldier.com to select an Army contact and get information about where to send packages.
U.S. Navy
The Navy encourages care packages for deployed sailors, particularly those on ships for extended periods. The website Support Our Troops allows you to sponsor a sailor and find specific needs for sailors deployed on ships. Visit SupportOurTroops.org to learn more.
U.S. Marine Corps
The Marines have partnerships with organizations like *MarineParents*, which sends care packages to deployed Marines year-round. You can visit [MarineParents.com](http://www.marineparents.com) for more information on sending holiday care packages directly to Marines.
U.S. Air Force
The Air Force Aid Society provides resources to help you send care packages to Air Force members. You can also reach out through AdoptAPlatoon, which has a program to send care packages to Airmen. Visit AdoptAPlatoon.org to participate in their care package program.
U.S. Coast Guard
Although Coast Guard members are usually deployed closer to U.S. shores, care packages are still welcomed. You can reach out through Operation Gratitude, which includes the Coast Guard in its care package program. Learn more at OperationGratitude.com.
Tips for Packing and Shipping
Use Durable Packaging: Choose sturdy boxes that will withstand travel.
Include a List of Contents: This helps with security and customs checks.
Check Restrictions: Some items, like alcohol and perishable foods, cannot be shipped to military addresses.
Send Early: Start mailing holiday care packages by early December to ensure they arrive in time.
Make a Difference This Holiday Season
Sending a care package may seem small, but it’s a powerful reminder to service members that people back home care. This holiday season, let’s make sure our troops know we’re thinking of them. Whether you send a single box or organize a community drive, every package sent brings a touch of home to those who need it most. Happy holidays, and thank you for supporting our troops!