Jennifer Golden of the Harrison Chapter of Shoeboxes for Soldiers stopped in the studios of 102-9 the Z this morning to talk about the local effort to collect 2,600 shoeboxes to send to soldiers deployed overseas.  

Shoeboxes for Soldiers sends care packages to our soldiers abroad. The contents of the boxes touch the hearts of the soldiers.  The harsh reality of being away from family during the holidays fades away, if only for a moment. The soldiers are reminded of the love and support that our community holds for them.

 You can make your boxes personal and from the heart. Add a thank you note or letter to your soldier.   You may even want to add a picture of you or your group and maybe even your email address. Chances are, you may hear back from your soldier.

The following is a list of suggested items, but is not limited to:

Healthcare- body lotion, toothbrush, tooth paste, icy hot, q-tips, toothache medicine, earache medicine, (also consider putting together a supply box for a female.)

Snacks- beef jerky, dried fruit, pop tarts, hard candy, mixed nuts, granola bars, fruit roll ups, ramen noodles, tuna in a pouch, gum, mints, bottled water drink mix, cookies.

Jennifer told 102-9 the Z that the organization has collected 500 boxes as of yesterday.  Students from Alpena Elementary School dropped three boxes off at the studios of 102-9 the Z this morning after hearing about the program. You can drop off your donations and boxes at the studios of 102-9 The Z and at the studios of Hometown Radio in Branson, Missouri.

Visit Shoeboxes for Soldiers' website for a more extensive list of acceptable items for donation and more information.