Last call for Harvest Package for Heroes items
COEUR d'ALENE - Supporting the troops overseas can be as easy as buying Q-tips, baby wipes or Silly String.
Those are a few of the more unusual items service personnel in Afghanistan and Iraq enjoy receiving in care packages from home, said Cheri Legaard, president of the local chapter of Blue Star Mothers of America.
"Baby wipes is one of the big things. They don't always have access to water," Legaard said.
The organization for mothers of men and women in the military is preparing to ship its Harvest Packages for Heroes on Saturday.
"Q-tips are great for cleaning the dust out of the guns, and Silly String is fun, but it's also good for locating trip wires," Legaard said.
There is still time to make a donation for the fall packages. Items can be dropped off today until 6 p.m. at Picket Fence, 8142 N. Government Way, Hayden.
But it's never too late to support the cause. Blue Star moms ship packages six to eight times per year.
There are certain items that cannot go into the shipments because most are headed for Muslim countries, Legaard said. Pork products and religious items are a no-no, and all personal items must be unscented.
Donation suggestions include:
n Nerf balls, bubbles, frisbees, yo-yos, marbles, batteries (AA, AAA), crossword and sudoku books, card games, current magazines;
n Protein and power bars, soft-packs of oatmeal, cereal, ramen soup, powdered drink mix in individual packages, trail mix, gum, individually wrapped candy (no chocolate), beef jerky, hot sauce;
n Foot powder, black or white cotton socks, SPF lip balm and 30 SPF sunscreen, disposable razors, tooth brushes, toothpaste, roll on and stick deodorant, personal size tissue packs, sticky fly paper, dust masks, waterless hand sanitizer, and hand warmers.
The group gratefully accepts cash donations also, to help defray mailing costs, Legaard said.
They are always looking for new members as well.
"We know there have got to be a lot more moms out there, and we want to reach them too," Legaard said. "All you have to do is have a child that's serving."
For information or to make a donation: 755-6067