DUNCANSVILLE - Operation S.O.S. (Support Our Soldiers) has kicked off its eighth annual campaign to help make the holidays a little brighter for American troops who are stationed overseas. Last year's project was an overwhelming success as they were able to send 277 holiday care packages to soldiers in the 298th Maintenance Company from Altoona, where they were stationed in Iraq. This year's collection will focus on the 1st Battalion of the 6th Marine Division in Afghanistan.
The nonprofit organization is seeking items such as snacks, drink items, toiletry items and other miscellaneous objects to help put together these holiday care packages. They will also appreciate monetary donations to help cover the overseas shipping costs. A full list of items can be viewed by visiting www.smithfurniturehof.com.
Several local businesses are helping Operation S.O.S. this year by collecting donations and setting up drop off boxes within their stores. Anyone wishing to donate can drop off their items at the following locations through Nov. 18: Smith Furniture, Professionals Auto Body, Ace Hardware, First Commonwealth Bank (Duncansville), Gem's Styling Salon, The Flower Connection, Carpet Depot, Mountain View Pet Hospital and the Logan Township Municipal Building.
For more information, contact Gary Clare at 695-5635 or smithfurniture@verizon.net.
