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Building care packages for soldiers [UPDATED]
Published 10:41am Monday, November 14, 2011 Updated 10:41am Monday, November 14, 2011The AmericInn of Fergus Falls has been working hard, along with the Blue Star Mothers of Alexandria, to collect donations to put together care packages for men and women serving in the military overseas.
Volunteers from all over filled the community room at the hotel on Veterans Day to help put together more than 25 care packages. The boxes were filled with personal care items, food, snacks, books, playing cards, stationery and personal hand-written thank you letters from area students.
“It’s a good way to say thank you and show how much we appreciate their hard work and service to our country,” Keresa Schultz, general manager of the AmericInn, said.
Every year the Blue Star Mothers, with the help of businesses such as the AmericInn, send more than 100 packages to soldiers.
Anita Garner, a Blue Star Mother, appreciates the efforts.
“I know a solider who has been in the Army for more than 20 years and the first package he ever received was from our group,” said Garner. “Some people serving just aren’t as lucky as some others to have families who support their decision to serve. Others may not have anyone to send them anything.”
More than 15 local and area businesses donated items for the packages. The group accepts collections all year.
To learn more about the Blue Star Mothers organization, or to find out how to donate, e-mail to bsmmn2@hotmail.com.
