Holiday Mail for Heroes begins

While military deployments and hospital stays may keep members of the U.S. armed forces away from their families this holiday season, the American Red Cross is collecting and distributing cards that send words of encouragement, gratitude and cheer.

From now until Dec. 7, Americans can send a card of thanks and support to members of the Armed Forces, veterans and their families through the Holiday Mail for Heroes program

“It just takes a moment to sign a card to share your appreciation for the sacrifices members of the military community make,” said Beth Dewald, executive director, Buffalo Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross. “You say thanks, we’ll do the rest.”

The Red Cross is inviting the public to send messages of thanks and holiday cheer until Dec. 7 by mailing them to:

Holiday Mail for Heroes

P.O. Box 5456

Capitol Heights, MD 20791-5456

Pitney Bowes Inc. receives cards at the Holiday Mail post office box, and screens them for hazardous materials. Pitney Bowes screens, packages and ships the cards at no charge.

Red Cross volunteers across the United States and on military installations overseas then sort and deliver the cards throughout the holiday season. The Red Cross and Pitney Bowes have received and distributed more than 4.7 million cards for members of the U.S. armed forces, veterans and their families since the program began in 2006.

This is the second year the Buffalo Valley Chapter has participated in this program. Last year in partnership with local programs such as the Arts Center’s Arts After School program and RSVP+, it sent over 400 cards for distribution around the world.

Cards must be postmarked no later than Dec. 7 for the program. Individuals are asked to refrain from sending “care packages,” monetary donations, or using glitter or any other kinds of inserts with the cards. More information and card requirements are at redcross.org/holidaymail.

Tags: community, military