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October 5, 2026 – Operation Enduring Support is collecting donations and addresses for deployed military personnel as part of its annual effort to send Christmas care packages to troops serving overseas.
Organizers are accepting APO and FPO addresses for deployed service members, as well as donations of items to be included in the care packages. Donations and addresses are needed by November 16.
Items requested include puzzle and game books, playing cards, protein and breakfast bars, Slim Jims, non-perishable crackers with cheese or peanut butter, and non-perishable chicken or tuna salad spreadable snacks with crackers. Organizers specify that the meat products should contain no pork.
Other requested items include gum, individually wrapped candy, individually packaged hot chocolate mix, individual coffee packets and ChapSticks.
Monetary donations are also being accepted to help cover postage, which organizers say is now more than $34 per box, as well as the cost of items included in the packages.
Donations can be dropped off at Grace Community Church, 901 North Main Street in Decatur, Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For more information, contact the church office at 217-429-5374.
APO and FPO addresses for deployed service members can be submitted to Dianne Shaw at dshaw0822@outlook.com or by calling 217-412-5353.
