I would like to write letters and/or send care packages to the soldiers in Iraq. What do I need to do?
A. The Dallas Area Chapter of the American Red Cross is not collecting letters or care packages to be sent to soldiers. The Department of Defense (DoD) has advised us of heightening security concerns and transportation restrictions, and has further cautioned us against collecting a large amount of goods. In the past, the military and DoD have accepted care packages directed to “Any Service Member”, however, the DoD has suspended its own “Any Service Member” services due to security and logistical concerns. For those individuals or groups who would like to collect items for the troops and who are willing to mail or transport them to Ft. Hood, the American Red Cross office at that location has a program in which they distribute items to injured service members at their military hospital and troops who are serving overseas. Please see the following information for more details: The American Red Cross, Ft. Hood, TX station supports our service men and women going to, during, and coming hom
The American Red Cross in Greater New York is not collecting letters or care packages to be sent to soldiers. The Department of Defense (DoD) has advised us of heightening security concerns and transportation restrictions, and has further cautioned us against collecting a large amount of goods. In the past, the military and DoD have accepted care packages directed to “Any Service Member.” However, the DoD has suspended its own “Any Service Member” services due to security and logistical concerns. Electronic messages of support and gratitude can be sent through “Operation Dear Abby.” You can also help by making a donation to the American Red Cross Service to Armed Forces (SAF) – Iraq Response program. Around the clock and around the globe, during times of personal crisis, SAF provides assistance and comfort to U.S. military members and their families. Your gift will support the nationally coordinated Red Cross services provided to military families across the country and to the American
