Operation Care and Comfort: A Heartfelt Initiative from Santa Clara

Operation Care and Comfort, a nonprofit organization based in Santa Clara, is making a significant impact by sending care packages to American troops stationed overseas. Volunteers gather weekly to pack boxes filled with essential items and heartfelt notes, ensuring that service members feel remembered and appreciated, especially during the holiday season.

Key Takeaways

Volunteer Efforts: Weekly gatherings to pack care packages for troops.
Community Support: Donations and support from local residents are crucial.
Personal Touch: Handwritten notes and letters are highly valued by recipients.

The Heart of the Initiative

Founded in the early 2010s, Operation Care and Comfort began in a garage and has since evolved into a fully volunteer-run organization. The nonprofit operates out of a small storage locker on De La Cruz Boulevard, where dedicated volunteers come together to prepare care packages for troops deployed in various conflict regions around the world.

On October 29, volunteers were joined by members of the United States Postal Service to pack boxes in time for the upcoming holidays. This collaboration highlights the community’s commitment to supporting those who serve the nation.

Voices from the Field

Richard Keppeler, the Executive Postmaster of San Jose and a veteran himself, shared his experiences of receiving care packages during his service in the late 1980s and early 1990s. He emphasized the emotional significance of receiving items from home, stating, "It didn’t matter if it was a bag of chips or a letter; it was a big deal."

Keppeler now finds joy in giving back, noting that many soldiers overseas often feel forgotten. He believes that initiatives like Operation Care and Comfort help bridge that gap, reminding service members that their sacrifices are appreciated.

Community Involvement

Julie DeMaria, co-founder of Operation Care and Comfort, explained that the organization relies heavily on community support. Donations of money and items are essential for the operation’s success. DeMaria encourages residents to contribute by donating everyday items or even writing letters to include in the care packages.

"Sometimes, that might be the only note they receive during their whole deployment," she said, highlighting the importance of personal connections.

How to Help

There are several ways individuals can contribute to Operation Care and Comfort:

Monetary Donations: Financial support helps cover shipping and purchasing necessary items.
Item Donations: Everyday items such as toiletries, snacks, and stationery are always needed.
Writing Letters: Personal notes and handmade cards can make a significant impact on the morale of troops.

Serving Troops Worldwide

Operation Care and Comfort serves troops across various regions, including Asia, Europe, and Africa. Approximately 90% of the recipients have signed up for the program, ensuring that those who receive care packages are actively connected to the initiative.

As the holiday season approaches, the organization is gearing up for its busiest time of year, aiming to send as many care packages as possible to remind service members that they are not forgotten.

For more information about how to get involved, visit the Operation Care and Comfort website.