“Holiday Mail for Heroes” Mailbox Open through Dec. 6
(Provided photo)
DUBOIS – Although many people spend the holiday season in the company of close relatives and friends, many of the nation’s heroes cannot do the same.
While military deployments and hospital stays may keep many service men and women away from their loved ones this season, the American Red Cross is doing its part to keep their holiday spirits high. The Red Cross will collect and distribute holiday cards that send words of encouragement, joy and cheer.
Through Dec. 6, local residents can give something that truly means something by sending a holiday thank you card to show support for the members of the Armed Forces, veterans and their families.
“The holiday season is the season of giving, it is the perfect time to give our appreciation and cheer to the military heroes,” said Jason Bange, executive director of the local Red Cross. “All you need is a piece of paper and a pen to say thanks, we will do the rest.”
The Red Cross is inviting the public to send messages of thanks and holiday cheer until Dec. 6 by mailing them to: Holiday Mail for Heroes, P.O. Box 5456, Capitol Heights, MD 20791-5456.
When the mail is sent, Red Cross partner Pitney Bowes Inc. receives the cards and then screens them for hazardous material. Then, Red Cross volunteers from across the country sort and deliver the cards to military hospitals, military bases and veteran organizations.
There are currently 2 million members of the U.S. military serving in the country and abroad and 24 million U.S. veterans. The Holiday Mail for Heroes campaign is a way for Americans to help spread much needed holiday cheer and thanks to the heroes of America and their families.
The Red Cross relies on the support of American people to provide services to the U.S. Armed Forces, veterans and their families. During this holiday season, people can support the Red Cross by making a financial donation at RedCross.org or calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.
For more information, call the local chapter at 814-371-2750 or visit RedCross.org/holidaymail.