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November 12, 2025- Operation Enduring Support, a local faith-based initiative, is currently accepting donations to be sent to U.S. service members stationed overseas. The group is seeking both items and APO/FPO military addresses by November 20 in order to prepare and ship care packages ahead of the holiday season.
Operation Enduring Support has a long-standing mission of providing encouragement and essentials to military personnel deployed abroad, especially during the holiday season when connection to home is especially meaningful.
The support effort, organized through Grace Methodist Church in Decatur, aims to boost morale among deployed troops by sending boxes filled with comfort items, snacks, and hygiene supplies.
Requested donation items include:
- 2026 calendars
- Puzzle books and playing cards
- Duct tape
- Protein and breakfast bars
- Slim Jims
- Non-perishable cheese or peanut butter cracker packs
- Chicken or tuna salad snack kits (no pork)
- Gum and individually wrapped candy
- Single-serve hot chocolate mixes
- 5-blade razors
- 4×6-inch notepads
- Eyeglass wipes and eye drops
- Combination shampoo/body wash
- Travel-size shampoo, conditioner, and lotion
Organizers emphasize that all items must be non-perishable and able to withstand shipping.
In addition to goods, financial contributions to help cover rising postage costs are also welcome. As of this year, shipping each box costs more than $29. Donations and care package items may be delivered or mailed to:
Grace Methodist Church
901 N. Main St.
Decatur, IL 62521
Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Church secretary Karyn is available to assist during donation hours and can be reached at (217) 429-5374.
Those with APO or FPO addresses of deployed service members are encouraged to submit them to Dianne Shaw at dshaw0822@outlook.com or by calling (217) 412-5353.
