Hugs Project Incorporated

I just remember a man a dad, a son, a husband, maybe a grandpa, a brother, a friend.
John Pendo strive Rd in Moss Landing Ca

I have volunteered here for around 14 years. I love supporting our military serving overseas.
I came to pack a box for my brother 14 years ago and never left.
We send care packages out year round to troops serving overseas.

The Hugs Project has been wonderful to work with! They know freedom is a precious gem and should NOT be taken for granted. Knowing the United States of America's military is comprised of individual people & each of those lives count, their outreach in love to people serving in the military is priceless!!!!

I've not been to The Hugs Okla HQ's in person (many miles away) but with the good communication & shared values of what is important in life I highly recommend The Hugs Project if you are looking for an organization that offers smiles & Hope in each box they send into the world.

Worked there recently with some other patriots who love our country and the Military men and women who serve.

I always feel better when I leave than when I get there.

As someone who served in Vietnam, I want these guys to feel the love we didn't.

That's all.

I have been a volunteer with this amazing nonprofit since the early days. The Starks rarely talk to someone without remembering to ask them if they have a loved one who is deployed "in harm's way". When I said, "Yes, my son is stationed in the Middle East, they immediately offered to send his group some care packages as their way of saying, 'Thank you for our FREEDOMS. We know it comes at a great cost and we are SO grateful"'. You will not find a nicer bunch of people than those who have kept The Hugs Project in operation for almost 20 years without 1 dime being paid for salaries.

Simply the best nonprofit listed on this site!!! So proud of what they do for our Military.

This group is awesome! I have volunteered with them on many occasions and they have become my favorite non-profit to support!! It’s phenomenal what they do for our troops!!

The spirit of volunteering will inspire you. Take part in far reaching work that is making a difference in the world. Be brave and enjoy the work of giving back.

Such a tremendous blessing to the active military. The HUGS Project is top of the line. Caring, giving people who work hard to see that the military serving overseas are made to feel love and appreciation for all they do for our country.I volunteered with this wonderful organization for close to a year and it was one of the greatest blessings in my life. If ever there was an organization that deserved top rated recognition, the HUGS Project is it.

Outside of animal rescue, Hugs in Oklahoma City is an on-going support project for our family. In fact, it's the only non-animal support group we're part of. Hugs does incalculable good for the troops - from guys and gals who get no mail to boxes of goodies sent to a whole crew, Hugs provides that which is SO very important: we're a link to home. We're proof that these wonderful men and women who sacrifice so much have thousands of people back home who care and aren't afraid to show it. From cards and supplies to toys for the kids they meet as they walk the streets wherever they're stationed; from games and candy to snack meals they can eat on patrol - foods that remind them there's more out there than an MRE when they get hungry - from books and magazines to movies and CDs filled with almost any kind of plot and music, Hugs mails it all, all year, but especially at Christmas... and when they get home, if they have Post Traumatic Stress (PTSD) or Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) they help with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), as well. The Hugs Project is one of the few groups whose leaders ask no and get no salary. Every dime goes to the troops... that's why my time and some of my money go to the cause.

I have volunteered with The Hugs Project for more than ten years. I am so impressed by the fact that no one in this organization gets paid. For almost twenty years Ray and Karen Stark have poured their time and money into this organization without ever expecting a dime in return. The only payment they need is the joy that their care packages bring to our deployed troops. They also have the privilege of helping military personnel who have suffered traumatic brain injuries regain their lives by paying for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. I have never met anyone who loves our troops more than this couple. They are wonderful people and this is a wonderful organization.

We've been involved with the Hugs Project since 2016. Thought we'd try it out for a year to see how it worked and if it was as good as they claimed and they appeared to be: They are. Since 2016, we've donated time, tears, cards, letters, books, spices, candy, can openers, hygiene products, food, games... if a troop can think of something they want or need and they can ask for it, we can get it - or hurt ourselves trying. And no one but the military person gets anything out of the effort. We all spend our own money and the donations that come in to provide. No one who volunteers gets any payment. Zero. All we want is to know that somewhere in the world there's a huge smile on a troop's face, knowing he/she hasn't been forgotten and there's someone praying for them back home to come home safe and sound. Hugs is genuine. Hugs is untiring. Hugs is awake, 24/7/365, no matter where they're deployed. Hugs is there.

The story behind Andy’s care package - - -

Josh had been receiving care packages for a couple of months. But, when he went to pick up his boxes, he noticed one of the guys in his unit never went to mail call, never even received a letter. He had a buddy in the military post office so he asked him about Andy. The buddy said, “Yeah, he’s not gotten any mail in the 8 months we’ve been here”.

Josh contacted the Hugs Project to ask if his next box could be sent to Andy instead. He asked them to keep it anonymous and for them not to tell where they got his name.

Josh got an email when the mailman picked up the boxes (of course, Josh also got one!). “It’s on it’s way. Let us know how it turns out”. About a month later, a big surprise….

I have worked with Karen and other volunteers for over 4 years now. I do my work in the background and virtually as I live in Florida - quite a distance from OKC, OK! I love doing computer work for The Hugs Project, making Christmas ornaments, and doing all manners of crafts - including sewing and finding unique patters to make/create. I feel blessed each time I do work with them ... and I love every minute of my time spent. I am not a veteran, but many of my older family are. My nephew is a Captain in the Space Force! I daily pray for our military, both home and overseas. GOD BLESS AMERICA! jeh

I try to write you guys a 5 star review each and every year because you supported me and my team each and every year we were on deployment.

I'm out of the Marines now but I still remember the joy those special care packages brought to all our faces.

You changed our lives for the better and it's great to see you are still sending your love and support around the world to the our Military.

You make a difference!

I've been a member since shortly after inception making cool ties and sending care packages from my home. I love that they are non profit and all volunteer. No money is ever spent to pay anyone for their services This group of people is so giving and caring and all over the United States. The Oklahoma site is so organized I wish I lived closer as I would be there as much as possible. Names and addresses for our troops were exchanged by all and always protected. My A.F. daughter was in Iraq in 2005 and Hugs Project sent her a package she shared with her buddies. All these people breath Red White Blue. Proud to be associated with them

I have worked with The Hugs Project for almost a year. Karen Stark and all the volunteers at Hugs Project are amazing humans! They work tirelessly stuffing boxes for deployed service members. Hugs has been raising funds to help provide hyperbaric oxygen therapy to veterans with PTSd. She took time out of her busy schedule to come and speak to my volunteer group. I simply cannot say enough good things about The Hugs Project!

The Hugs Project supports all our Military. Now, more than ever, they need to know we care about them and that we appreciate our freedoms. Those freedoms come at a mighty high cost. Thank you to every Soldier, Sailor, Airman and Marine.

I’ve been volunteering for The Hugs Project for over ten years. I work one day per week, more at Christmas time and at special events, to get several hundred “care packages” packed and ready for shipment to our troops in harm’s way. (We also ship C P’s out weekly during the year.). We believe this helps the morale of those who are protecting our freedoms. I feel that I am “giving back” and helping in some small way to help keep our country safe.

Great group to volunteer with. They know how to support our troops.

We, at Main Street Out Loud, are proud supporters of our troops, active and veteran. We are always interested to learn of organizations that are actively involved in military support efforts.

Before we ever endorse an organization, we travel to its base and get to know the organizing members and some of the volunteers. We had heard of The Hugs Project and, in time, among other stops, we traveled to Oklahoma to get a firsthand look.

From the moment we met Ray and Karen Stark (founders of The Hugs Project), we were more than impressed---we were overcome with gratitude. The feeling of true love and care for our troops was more than about the story as to how they started this organization; the feeling was felt in the air, in the rented space, in every box prepared for shipping and in the hearts of everyone we met.

Many organizations start off meaning well, but in time, they become a business with too much overhead and not enough sincerity in caring for the objective. Physical locations, admin costs and salaries erode the loving foundation upon which too many of these organizations are originally built and the once cherished daily functions become burdensome chores carried out in a robotic manner.

Unlike the way of organizations mentioned, The Hugs Project is every bit the organization started more than 15 years ago---if anything the love and care has increased through the unadulterated dedication to its founding principles of caring for our troops.

From our first meeting in 2010 to this day, we have stayed in touch with and supported The Hugs Project. We have had Karen Stark on the air, as our guest during special broadcasts regarding our men and women in uniform. And yes, we have even become close friends with Ray and Karen; we consider them as part of our extended family.

The Hugs Project, under the hands-on daily guidance of Ray and Karen Stark, is not only in good hands, it is surely the standard bearer for the true meaning of charity. Packed with the necessities so needed by our troops, also included is love without boundaries and sacrifice without limits. And while our troops need the material items, the boost in moral through the warmth felt as they open their packages---they get "Hugs" too.

Imagine the world if all social cause nonprofits (as The Hugs Project) were grounded in the purity of charity (love).

Without reservation, I, as executive producer and host of Main Street Out Loud, believe that no other nonprofit organization deserves recognition and support more so than The Hugs Project.

Rudi K
Main Street Out Loud

I was fortunate to have learned about this incredible organization through a radio broadcast, Main Street Out Loud. Through the sincerity in Karen's voice and the many aspects of the Hugs Project Incorporated, I wanted to contribute and learn more. During a cross country road trip my husband and I planned time to not only meet the volunteers and see the "process", but volunteer some time ourselves. It was a well-organized group, several "stations", some with items being donated, other staging areas with the boxes to fill and a serpentine area of items to put in the boxes. Another area was set to address the personalized boxes for shipping. There was SO much excitement, such positive energy there surrounding being able to contribute and prepare packages for our deployed troops. I can't begin to imagine the wonderful benefits of receiving a package, when stationed so far from home.. along with the PTSD support after coming home. This nonprofit is such a "class act". I could not be more thankful and grateful for Karen, Ray and the entire group, and all the volunteers who make this effort so successful. Just take a look at the other reviews and you will see a common thread. Please, donate or volunteer. You may receive more than you give- by the pride of being part of this great team.

I have been volunteering with this group for the past several years. We do our best to support our deployed troops with both personal care items and other less necessary items that bring a touch of home to them. We have also begun to assist homecoming troops with TBIs locate hyperbaric oxygen treatments. Our troops need to know that those of us at home support them. We are forever in their debt.

What a privilege to volunteer at this wonderful organization which has done so much for our Military! I became involved with Hugs about 14 years ago because I saw how they did so much with few resources - and NO PAID STAFF, 100% volunteers! Hugs remains that way today and has expanded our mission beyond sending care packages to those serving in harm’s way. Additionally, for the last few years, Hugs has funded HyperBaric Oxygen Therapy for many of our Military and First Responders who have suffered injuries while serving this great nation. It is a joy to see the results of this effective treatment program in the lives of those we have helped treat!

Started with The HUGS Project over 10 years ago, when my AF son went to Afghanistan the first time. It helped ME to be doing something to help those in harms way, and I know it helped many of them, by the letters and pictures of response we got. I also helped in various fund raising efforts, like the Blazing Sun - Run for Freedom - a super hot run in July to remind folks that our troops are in terrible heat WITH backpacks, etc...several military came out and ran in full gear and “Captain America” came with his dog to take the kids on a walk, looking for anything “bad” - he was great, getting down and looking at ant hills, hiding behind bushes, the kids participated and loved it! This non-profit organization is run on donations and they are stretched as far as possible. We send postage paid size boxes with everything from gum, canned tuna, protein bars and candy to socks, razors, baby wipes and toilet paper. Some of these folks are out in the country with no BX or Walmart in sight! The postage is NOT free, but the regular rate, and we pack them as tight and full as possible. I am proud to be a part of this amazing group of people, dedicated and selfless in so many ways.

I was given the number For the hugs project by a nurse at the VA medical center. I was there one day with my husband who has TBIand PTSD. I was at a loss, I didn't know where to turn, I was alone. No one understands PTSD, and/or TBI. I picked up the phone oneafternoon sitting in the church parking lot waiting for my mom to come out, made an appointment to go in and talk to the leader of the program. she got us in the very next day. 24 hours later, my husband had his very 1st hyperbaric Treatment. He now has completed over 60 treatments, I finally have my husband back. Thank you to the hugs project for helping my veteran to get the help that he needed.

I am very excited to know there are such great people and such a great organization out there to go to such lengths to support soldiers! As a vet that has suffered a TBI (non-service related) I am so excited to have spoke with Karen and learned of the steps being taken to provide help for those of us that have suffered the lasting effects of brain injury.

AMAZING ORGANIZATION!! =)

I have worked with Hugs for more than 5 years. They are caring, compassionate people who truly do love our military. Wish there were more like them.

Simply STELLAR!!!

This group of patriotic folks work without pay to make sure our military's needs are met. They improve morale regardless of what state or branch the young man or woman is from or with. Kudos to The Hugs Project,

I have never volunteered for a better group of people than The Hugs Project. Their goal is to help those serving in harm's way know they are loved by those back home. While volunteering we pack more needed items in one box than I thought was ever possible. People spend hours making homemade items that will give our troops items they need and a little piece of home. The cool ties, "hugs around the neck", really do help in times of extreme heat and we have heard back reports of how they have saved lives. No one serving in this group receives a paycheck so all donations go straight into sending items to our military. Ray and Karen Stark, the founders, go above and beyond anyone I have ever seen to give of their time to make sure our men and women serving our country know that we care and love them. I am so glad our paths crossed so I could join in serving our troops as well.

I had an amazing time volunteering for HUGS PROJECT! They have so much to help send overseas to our military and what a blessing to give back to those who fight for us everyday. Love this project and the people that daily devote their time to it! What a blessing right here in Oklahoma!

I love working with the Hugs Project. I enjoy hearing the stories of the men and women who receive the packages and how much they love the items in them. The Hugs Project uses everything that is donated to them. This is a great organization made up entirely of volunteers who work from the heart, not for a paycheck.

I started volunteering for The Hugs Project in 2006. This year we assembled care packages to send to the troops! It is a very organized and fun group to be a part of!!

The Hugs Project is a truly unique nonprofit, benefitting troops and their families and also volunteers who become friends through working with this group. There are no words for those who lead this nonprofit, for their dedication and loyalty to the troops, and their willingness to donate time, time, and more time. Oklahoma City is a better place because of The Hugs Project.

I personally know The Hugs Project and what they do for our military men and women. My Mom and I have donated food items and fabric and sewn for The Hugs Project for our men and women. This organization LOVES our military and goes above and beyond. I will continue to do whatever I can to support them.

As a 4-H leader, I am constantly searching for community service projects for the kids to participate in. Karen and Ray Stark are such sweet people who work with the kids and never let us leave without Karen visiting with them about her 4-H career. Coming from a military family, I am more than eager to support our service men and women. It gives me pride to know that a box we packed was sent and received by very grateful military personnel. I know that a small gesture on our part helped make a person far from home a little bit brighter! I highly recommend everyone to take a few hours to volunteer at The Hugs Project in support of our military!

My husband and I donated 144 baseballs to the Hugs Project a couple of years ago - it was great! They tucked one in each of 144 care packages going to Iraq and Afghanistan. We were so glad to be able to help.

I've been supporting the Hugs Project for many years. I love the fact that supporting our troops with care packages is a priority, as well as supporting those troops who have returned home and need help with PTSD (The Hugs Project provides the oxygen for The Patriot Clinics.). Knowing that my donations are being used so wisely makes giving easy!

We absolutely love what The Hugs Project is doing for our service members! Karen and Ray Stark are the most dedicated people I know. They are so welcoming to anyone who wants to help. All of the volunteers I've met there have amazing hearts.

I was introduced to The Hugs Project by a coworker five years ago. My husband deployed two times since that meeting and THP sent packages to my husband and everyone that was deployed with them. The boxes they packed were loaded to the top. My husband's group was so amazed at how much they put into the care packages. I was so impressed with THP that I came on board and currently serve as their President. THP is filled with amazing volunteers who have so much love for our troops.

My son and his Marine buddies benefitted from the Hugs every tour served in Iraq! Knowing people from home care did wonders for lifting their spirits! Thank you for all you do!

Wonderful group that's very caring and has lots of love for soldiers!

I heard many times of the ladies meeting in a near by town to make cake in a cup to send of to those in service for our country. Last year I joined the group and what a wonderful event. We spent the day chatting, laughing and filling mugs. I then heard how the mugs would travel with one of the ladies to a state south and then on to the service people. What a wonderful way to say thank you to those giving so much. The Hugs Project offers a wonderful way for people to give back if even just one cup at a time. Thank you Hugs Project

I played in a golf tournament yesterday and our foursome was given the opportunity to make a donation to HUGS. Without hesitation, we kicked in $200. With a son flying an F-16 in the USAF, I look at all the men and women who serve as family. This is a small price to pay for the sacrifices these warriors make. Thank you HUGS.

I am honored to work with such wonderful people who work extremely hard getting things done for our soldiers in harm way. With the letters and pictures that we get makes us know that what we do give them a little bit of home. Being a Navy wife and a Marine mom (daughter) it make me feel good to be able to do this work.

I work every Thursday and enjoy working with this dedicated group of people. We hope the unique and thoughtful items we include show our appreciation to our Service Men and Women how much we appreciate what they do for us.

One of my customers told me about The Hugs Project just before Christmas, so I took my teenage son to check it out. We found a wonderful group of volunteers, tirelessly organizing and packing and making hand made gifts for our troops. We asked what we could do and next thing we knew the boxes were stacking up. So 3 weeks later when shipping day came we stacked care packages on pallets 6 feet high, thats a little more than 100 per pallet. There were close to 100 pallets that day being sent all over the world., and that was just the 1st shipment. All done with love from Karen and her organization. I've seen Pics of our troops opening them, and the happiness it brings to them while they are so far from home. The best charity I have volunteered at in a long time.

This is an absolutely awesome group. All volunteers, so all money donated goes directly to supporting the troops. When my son was deployed to Iraq, they shared packages of love with him and all his buddies. They were a blessing!

I have personally worked on projects with Karen and am constantly amazed at what she is abled to do for our service men and women. The Hugs Project is a beacon of light among nonprofit agencies and a testament to what a simple idea can blossom into.

I had the wonderful opportunity of working with this group for a few days the first week of December. I drove from Houston to Oklahoma City just to do what I could do to help. I met some of the most wonderful people and I cannot tell you what a great group this is, young and old.

HUGS is AWESOME!!!! My youngest son was deployed and I signed him and a few of his buddies up to receive Care Packages. When the packages arrived my son says that everyone gathered around their beds to see what they'd received. They'd grab something out of it and place the rest in the common areas to be shared.
One young man had no family to support him and my son said he actually had tears in his eyes as he opened his first package. The young man said that receiving that package let him know that there were people who cared if he were lonely, lost, and scared. He says that his box contained a letter thanking him for his service, praising him for being man enough to make the sacrifices he was making, and sending him prayers. He allowed everyone to read it then, he folded it up and put it in a safe place. To this day, he carried it around in his wallet. It's faded and warn from him rereading it so often but his hands still shake when he shows it to people.
But, HUGS didn't stop there. They didn't just "adopt" my son and his buddies, they adopted me as well. Without their love and support I would never have made it through my sons deployment. Mary and Karen checked up on me all the time, asked about my son and his buddies, and they listened to a mother's fears for her child. Without them, I would have never made it through the longest 12 months of my life with my sanity intact.
I can't thank HUGS enough for supporting my son, his buddies, and myself during that deployment. Your support made the sacrifices those young men and women made easier and less lonely, and helped ease my fears. Please keep up the good work!!! What you do touches the lives and hearts of many. THANK YOU!!!! And God Bless you all.

This group of people are amazing in how much they serve our men/women in harm's way. So many men/women have smiled simply because of the love and support they have shared.

This is the best organization that I have worked with because the volunteers are so dedicated towards their cause. I don't think any money goes to "administrative costs" because all the volunteers reach deep into their pockets to pay for their high costs. The military are experiencing reduced supplies and they really deserve so very much. I pray for the service members who are so appreciative of their Hugs boxes and I hope they return safe. I am very grateful to the Hugs group for what they do.

I have been associated with the Hugs Project early on, since I don't know when exactly. I can't even remember where we met, it wasn't at the current Crossroads Mall though. I've volunteered time, money and talent since I first answered a newspaper article at its early beginnings. You see I did not know anyone in the military, but after reading the article I was so moved to do something for the troops, might have been Desert Storm. I haven't been as active as in the beginning because of raising my granddaughter, but have become more so because my granddaughter, age 7, can help as well. The 2012 Christmas campaign was memorable for her because she colored and wrote messages on the care packages. She even got a glimpse of her artwork when the local television station aired the event. She is always asking to go to the Hugs Project so she can help. Karen and Ray work Hugs Project 24 hours a day with only admiration, respect and love from the troops and members as payment for service.

AFTER A HARD DAY OF WORK I GET A UNKNOW CARE PACKAGE FROM THIS LOVING GROUP OF AMERICAN HEROS, THE HUGS PROJECT. I DID NOT ASK FOR ANYTHING OR KNOW THEM BUT THEY SENT ME GOOD STUFF I DID NEED AND SOME OF MY FELLOW DEVIL DOGS. THIS LOVING GROUP OF OKIES REALLY KNOWS HOW TO MAKE A GREATFUL NATION PROUD TO SERVE A GIVING GOD TO SOME MANY WITH NOTHING AND HERE I STAND GIVING IT BACK WITH MY FELLOW AMERICANS AND YES THE BAD GUYS. AND THE LOOK ON THEIR FACE, AS IF THEY THINK WE WERE GOING TO DO BAD THINGS TO THEM AFTER WE CATCH THEM. LORD CONTINUE TO BEST OUR COUNTRY AND THIS LOVING GROUP OF AMERICANS THE HUGS PROJECT. AMERICA BLESS GOD! SSGT TED KREY SEMPERFI

If you have read any of the posted reviews, you already know what the HUGs Project is and what they do for the US Military. I have been a "Career Volunteer" my whole life, and this is the one organization that has done/will continue to do, the most good for the most people that I have ever worked with. Non-military sometimes have a hard time understanding the career choice of men and women who have taken on the job of protecting their country. The HUGs Project champions these military members with unquestioning support year round...not just during the holidays (which is when they send out 5,000 packages!) but every day. Each week, 50-75 CARE packages are mailed to troops in all services who are serving in harm's way. This non-profit group is run by an amazing couple that are tireless in their dedication to the cause, with the promise, "As long as they are fighting for our freedom, we'll work to support them." This is a remarkable group that I am proud to be a part of.

I learned about The Hugs Project years ago online. I've done what I can to support through fabric donations and money when I can. This year I had a high school classmate deployed overseas. I sent this group of people the name and address for my friend. Before I could blink they sent him a care package. My friend was touched by the kindness of strangers. I can't speak highly enough of The Hugs Project!

I've been volunteering since 2004. HUGS has sent packages to my family & friends serving overseas. They are efficient and so thoughtful about how they spend. Every penny goes to the troops!!

This is such a wonderful charity. All one needs to do is ask and they will send a care package. In addition they look for service personnel to send packagers to. When both my daughter and son in law where deployed to Iraq they sent them care packages that were very useful . As my son in law said they really knew what they were doing and what was needed. They make helmet warmers for our service members to put under their helmet that keeps their heads warm. For places that are very hot they send an item- its like a scarf, very lightweight - that gives you a hug that when activated with water cools you down. This is life saving . They have never turned down a requests and wok tirelessly to help out our deployed military women and men. I can not say enough wonderful things about this charity. They deserve to be considered one the top great charities. Even though both my marines Were deployed in 2008, I have sent them request for other military members who are active duty. They always respond.

As a staff member of Feed The Children, we cannot say enough about The Hugs Project. It is a little TLC from home. They are well organized and have a great volunteer base. It also helps give family members peace of mind knowing their loved ones are receiving a care package to lift their spirits while they are serving our country. We are proud to partner with The Hugs Project.

The Hugs Project sends approximately 100 care packages weekly to our troops and 5,000 at Christmas. It is all volunteer--no one takes salaries, and the headquarters is donated by Crossroads Mall. They also pay the water and electricity. "Hugs" are the cooling neckties that are sewn for the troops to keep them cool in the summer and warm in the winter. The Hugs Project has sent over 1 million "hugs" to the Middle East. Many other things are sent in the care boxes--things our troops need. It is a great organization!

My husband and I have assisted The Hugs Project for four or five years by supplying needed supplies and when health permits, working at their facility. They touch so many soldiers lives with the work they do and it is staffed entirely by volunteers. We heartily recommend this group as a very worth while organization.

The message is clear at HUGS PROJECT - they care. All volunteers give of their time and resources to create and send packages to our military, which are lovingly received by our soldiers. Many thanks for a job well done.

The Hugs Project is a wonderful organization. Not only do they continue to keep deployed members of the military in packages, they do it with lots of love, blood sweat and tears. They are helping remind those deployed there really are people back in the States supporting them and loving them.

My son has been the recipient of packages during both his deployments to Iraq. His buddies also received packages. I know when my son deploys again, he will be on their list and receive a ton of wonderful stuff/

The HUGS Project provides a service to our fighting men that can't always be known to those within the program and those that receive the packages. I provide dollars and goods to the project and I know that when a soldier receives a package his/her heart and spirit is raised to a new level.

I have been associated with The Hugs Project since 2004. All are volunteers and all have extremely unlimited huge hearts. Hundreds of thousands of cool ties (hugs) have been made by many of us and many more are made yearly. Our A.F. daughter was deployed twice and they came through with packages to help her fellow troops that did not receive support from home. When a call goes out for a needed item or to help, hundreds respond and are there to help. I've belonged to several military based organizations and The Hugs Project is by far the best. God Bless our troops, and The Hugs Project.

I support The Hugs Project because I support our troops. Hugs people do a great job of boosting their morale. My son's in the military and has received care packages from the group. It has meant a lot to him that someone cared enough to make or gather so many thoughtful items and send as a gift from home.

Several handmade items are adapted to fit the special circumstances of combat troops. For example, board games are made of fabric to be light and easily transported. The cooling neckties make life a little more bearable in the desert, and they have been known to actually save lives.

Just a great organization.

Love and caring for the American troops must be contagious and Karen and Ray Stark are the most infectious carriers! Their love, concern and dedication to serving those who are serving us in the military is impossible to ignore. The result of working with or donating to the Hugs Project is such a good feeling you just want more of that feeling!

It is with great pleasure that write this here. A little background first. In my own experience, I have been in both Iraq and Afghanistan (twice each), and while in Afghanistan I had the privilege to be involved in not one but two missions with my own son. I have had two nephews who have served in Iraq as well. What I am getting at is this, I know what our "kids" are going through, been there done that with them. And back in April I had the opportunity to meet and get to know some great members of this group, Karen and Ray, and to find out first hand the great job they and all the HUGS members do, all without pay, to help our troops in harms way. And most times paying for the items they make with their own funds. They do not just care, they really care, very deeply. If you have been seeking a group to join or donate to, my money is on the Hugs Project.

So nice to know that when your son is far from home someone wants to send him a hug.

I started helping The Hugs project a few years ago. I joined after our grandson left for Iraq. There were many other groups that I am involved in but The Hugs Project is one that I enjoyed the best. I don't do as much now, too old lol but they are still the best.

Being down range you don't get the luxuries that we take for granted here in America every day.
You don't have 24 hour access to stores or even showers for that matter, so something like a box of some baby wipes goes a long way to someone who is sleeping in a hole in the ground...literally!
We have guys that risk their lives doing convoys just to get care packages to others who are in harsher terrain! Those who receive these packages are always in great spirits!! When you're talking about being in a war zone and having all of the same problems you still have on the home front like bills, deaths in the family, divorce, stress in general that makes you just want to quit...that little piece of Heaven that's a HUGS Care Package is all someone needs to keep going! Keep it up HUGS! You're loved by more than you know!

I have worked with the Hugs project for about 7an half years I have done sewing and helped where ever needed All people who work there donate their time and materials. I enjoydonating my time to this worth while project giving care packages to our soldiers in harms way sending a little home to them. It makes me proud when we get a letter from a soldiers thanking us for the item we send .
Huggs, sox , drink mixes. home made cookies
When my nephew was over seas he told me when receiving the huggs box was a bright momentof that day and he had lots of help to open his box

Some bands that I play in had the chance to perform at a HUGS. We practiced several weeks getting ready and had a really good time working with the volunteers and learning more about HUGS. The letters from the troops were very moving and rewarding.
As a civilian, I'm really glad to know there are organizations like HUGS that give comfort to our troops who are fighting for our country while we go about life as normal.

Karen Stark and everyone at the Hugs Project is selflessly committed to the mission of extending a heartfelt thank you to every soldier serving in today's military, especially those in harm's way. I have spent enough time volunteering and helping pack boxes, write letters, make cool ties, and am constantly amazed at this organization's tireless effort. I have never been so personally motivated and inspired as I have by the Hugs Project and the hearts behind it. I have seen the good it does first hand and have had the joy and honor of realizing the huge emotional impact that one care package and one note means to each and every troop that recieves them. I have come to value more deeply the importance of the human spirit and how it can be changed through The Hugs Project.
I attended a small carnival outside OKC with the Hugs Project where we set up a small booth trying to gain funds to help our soldiers, and to reach out and inspire others to be greatful for their sacrifices. It poured rain and was cold, but we did not pack up, instead Karen and I huddled in the back of her van, continuing to make things we could send to the troops. When the rain cleared a man stopped by and gave us all a heartfelt thank you and told us of how he was deeply discouraged after returning to the states from his time of service and to see minimal gratitude from other citizens and it motivated him to see what we were doing and he had actually recieved our packages overseas and said that they had boosted the morale of his fellow men in arms. I broke down and cried, and hugged this perfect stranger. There is no deeper connection to humanity than that which I have experienced with the Hugs Project. This organization and It's mission deserve all the recognition they can be given. Thank you Hugs!!

My nephew deployed for his third tour. The first two years, I was able to send him packages. This time I could not. Thankfully, I met someone who is actively involved in HUGS. I gave her the APO address, and packages have been going to Jason and his troops ever since. I am so thankful. THEY are even more thankful. This organization is a true blessing.

As a Gold Star Mother who's Army Soldier Son was KIA in 2005 in Iraq and Mom of a 2nd Soldier Son, who deployed twice to very dangerous areas in Iraq, I know first-hand how important The Hugs Project is for Troops morale and "family support back home" during the toughest times! The Hugs Project is the epitome of good neighbors, good friends and greatttt Americans by their actions!!! These volunteers are about the hardest working Americans you will ever know! Who always rise to the bar to help our Troops over and over again!

Year after year, The Hugs Project Volunteers selflessly... and tirelessly..must raise donation funds to create, pack and ship thousands of much needed care boxes and cool ties to our Troops serving on the front lines overseas. Their care boxes are life lines from home to our Troops... letting them know some fellow Americans remember them and their daily sacrifices while they courageously serve far from home!! I heard directly from my Sgt. Soldier Son when based in the dessert, in a primitive forward operating base with 130 degree heat, no running water and short supplies receiving care boxes from The Hugs Project totally renewed Soldiers morale and shared goodwill! The Soldiers commented "they don't know what they would have done without those care boxes, as they were reall morale life savers!" A care box and letters can be one of the best ways to let our Soldiers know they aren't forgotten and are appreciated for their service to our nation during a time of war. A box so small that means so much!! For a lifetime of "caring" memories for our Troops! But, The Hugs Project cannot handle this load alone and also need help and support!

Many Americans just assume that care boxes to our Troops are made up and shipped from our military facilities free of charge. That is quite an incorrect assumption as each care box made costs The Hugs Project over $10 dollars a box to be mailed, and the mail carrier is the United States Post Office, not shipping on military cargo planes. And items in the care boxes depend on the donations received or funds sent in to buy the supplies packed. Yearly the costs run into multiple thousands of dollars easily just to continue to send our American Troops a caring box from home filled with love...and hugs!

As community neighbors, The Hugs Project members also kindly and actively support other non profit military support groups in Oklahoma and try to work with them often on Troop projects such as "welcome events at Christmas/ Exodus" at the OKC airport, deployment ceremonies for the Oklahoma 45th Infantry Army and Air National Guard, and numerous statewide and nationwide Troop support events yearly. Also, as a former chapter President of a fellow military non profit support group, The Hugs Project generously helped my organization on several occasions with their time and services and were wonderful partners to work with in helping "get" care boxes sent to our Soldiers. They were much appreciated in their fellow support!

And until the last of our brave Troops are able to return home, The Hugs Project wants to keep remembering our Warriors with hearfelt support and care boxes filled with cool ties and much needed supplies. Please help them with their admirable and continuing goal!
The Hugs Project is a truly outstanding and wonderful organization!!
They are America at it's best!

Jan Martin
Gold Star Mother and former Blue Star Mother
Edmond, OK

So there I was sitting in a tent in Afghanistan during Christmas, away from my friends, family, and about anyone who cared when in walked a sergeant with a big box full of goodies. I would have a Christmas presant afterall. Thanks to the Hugs Project everyone in that tent got to have a little something nice this Christmas. Thank you Hugs Project!

Some of our scout troop helped HUGS in OKC a couple of years ago for service time. I have 3 sons who are scouts and they enjoyed working to help our troops try to enjoy a few of the comforts of home. From what I have read in email attachments to HUGS, our efforts were much appreciated. I hope that our troop will volunteer again for this much worthy cause.

M Welch

II am a retired Vietnam Veteran. When I was serving in Southeast Asia there was not any origination doing what the Hugs Project is doing. It would have been great to receive packages from people that you did not know and know that they really did care about what we were doing and how we were.
When we retuned from Southeast Asia we were spit on, called names and look at as the sum of the earth.
The Men and Women that serve this country today deserve better and this a group of great people that are showing them that there is people who do care about what they are doing and how they are living. They do a great job of getting needed supplies to the Men and Women of our arm forces.
Karen and all of her volunteers are to be commended for all the hard work and long hours that they put in.
I would have loved to have received a package and support that they give everyone.
I have been a volunteer for a short time but due to work requirements I can not spend as much time helping all that I want.

I love The Hugs Project because the packages sent to our troops touch them on a personal level. Every care package is packed with – well, much care. We often think about the troops and wish we could let them know how much we appreciate their sacrifice. The Hugs Projects sends encouragement from “home” to our troops and, of course, the true vision of the “hug” is brilliant – a cooling tie that will help lower the body’s temperature when in the heat. A real source of comfort physically as well as emotionally. We receive an e-mail each week with “thank you’s” from the troops and it’s heartwarming to read how they felt when the received their package, often sharing it with everyone they can. I wish we could send every service man and woman a package from The Hugs Project…they deserve it! They deserve our best for defending our country and our home.

Our daughter is in Afghanistan and their Unit has been put in a camp with the Nato soldiers away from the other Americans. She and the other members of the Unit have received boxes of goods from your organization. The receipt was completely unexpected, a wonderful suprise and spirit lifting for them all. The smallest package or card received by a soldier helps them make it though the day and lets them know they are not forgotten. Please keep up the good deed. Our soldiers look forward to it and depend on it.

Not only does this organization help and support troops in need of simple yet scarce supplies, but they also provide a fun and social environment for those with little to do or those who just need a reason to get out of the house. These people are literally some of the nicest people anyone could ever meet. If you need some community service hours, they're there to help. If you wanna get out of the Lazy-Boy and do somethin productive, they're there to provide. If you want to help out the troops over seas fighting for our freedom, whether they are a relative, a loved one, or just a friend, the Hugs project is the place to be. I personally love every moment I'm there, packing care packages, ironing hugs, or even bagging up chocolate. There's many jobs available, creative jobs for the kids and even simple jobs like sowing and ironing for those who need to sit and still be productive.

The Hugs Project is an awesome group of really friendly, wonderful people - all working together for a common goal - to let our fine young people serving in Afghanistan and Iraq know how much we support and appreciate all that they do - (the fact that we have so much fun and laughter why doing so shouldn't count, but it does!) It is amazing to me to watch, when I volunteer each week, everyone pitch in, figure out as an all volunteer what/how needs doing and "get 'er done." Awesome!

I love working with the Hugs Project because it provides me with a great way to give simething back to the men and women serving in harm's way to provide me with the freedoms I enjoy every day. I can use my everyday skills to create things useful to others. The care packages we put together contain common supplies we take for granted here in the US, but which may be impossible to get where our service men and women are posted on foreign soil. When was the last time you had to go without basic hygiene supplies like toothpaste, shampoo, or soap? I know I would be lost without them. I can't imagine living in a tent (or less) and not having access to the simplest things. The Hugs Project is filling a big void and the volunteers who serve are wonderful supporters of our troops. I highly recommend this organization to anyone who wants to help our sons and daughters survive their service abroad.

MY HUSBAND I HAVE WORKED AT OR SUPPORTED THE HUGS PROJECT FOR SEVERAL YEARS AND ARE ALWAYS AMAZED AT THE DEVOTION AND CARING OF ALL VOLUNTEERS. THEY PUT A LOT OF THOUGHT INTO WHAT GOES INTO THE BOXES AND THE LETTERS COMING FROM THE TROOPS EXPRESS THEIR GREAT APPRECIATION. ALL THIS ENCOURAGES US TO GIVE AS MUCH AS WE CAN AFFORD BECAUSE IT IS SO GREATLY NEEDED AND APPRECIATED.

This is a wonderful organization that is nothing else is filled with heart. n
their is not one voluteer or doner that does not put more then 100 percent in everything they do to support our men and women in harms way.

I get so much enjoyment working with this special group of men and women who show everyday how much doing for others mean to them. Being a part of this organzation has also made me a better person and so much fullfillment in helping this group give to our service personal.

This is an important organization in what it does. they give our service men and women reinforcement in that this country truely supports our men and women in the job that they were called to do to protect us so we are allowed to do the things we do in our daily lives . In this case i am allowed to volunteer to give back to them . May they be kept safe.

I work at the FAA and received an email that volunteers were needed for the HUGS Project to pack boxes for the troops. My husband and I wanted to show support for the troops who give their all for their Country. We were happy to be a part of the team that sent 4,000 boxes to the troops this Christmas 2010. We are proud of the men and women who fight for our freedom. We will continue to support the HUGS project for as long as we have troops supporting us!

I began volunteering for Hugs when my son expressed interest in joining the Air Force while in college. Later, when he was sent to Iraq, we sent several care packages to him. He was always so encouraged to get the boxes and shared them with as many people as he could. Last fall he was transferred to a different base and as he unpacked, he found the special things he had saved from his "Hug boxes." He said it was as if he was receiving those boxes all over again. I am proud to be a part of an organization that makes our military feel appreciated.

The mail package that I received from The Hugs Project (OKC) while I am in Iraq with the military was incredible. The package contained so many different items that it had something for everyone. I shared the package with other military members where I work and they greatly enjoyed the various snacks, hygiene items and reading material.

Beyond the physical usefulness of the items, it was a great morale booster to get a package out of the blue, from people that don't know me.

The Hugs Project (OKC) is really helping out military members who are deployed overseas through their care packages.

I am 71 & my husband is 73 & we have been volunteers since the year it was organized. We can think of no better group to work for than The Hugs Project which focuses on helping our troops in harm's way. Will always remember young lady who wrote that she never got any mail. Had no family. Got a package from Hugs & she cried because someone cared enough to send her a box & a letter of appreciation for her service to the USA. No volunteer is turned away. We need cutters, sewers, ironers, packers, letter writers. Small children draw pictures for the troops & the troops love it. One Sunday school class wrote letters of appreciation & the troops loved that & replied to the kids.

I've seen the thousands of boxes that The Hugs Project sends to troops at Christmas time. They also send 40-50 boxes each week throughout the year. The feedback from the troops indicates that they cannot believe the variety of things that can be packed into one box. They receive handmade portable games, toiletries, letters, flash drives, chocolate (even in the summer) and much more. One of the most appreciated gifts seems to be socks.

Cooling ties were the first things that were sent. They can cool a body's core temperature by several degrees and have been known to save the lives of soldiers suffering from heat stroke. Of course, thousands of these are still sent out every year.

The troops are very appreciative that people at home are working so hard to support them. They usually share with others in their unit so one package goes a long way in letting our troops know someone cares.

I helped with HUGS a couple years back when they were sending school supplies overseas. I work a lot so I do not get to come help much but respect the work they do. They helped my brother when he was overseas (both deployments).

While doing a class project based on a non-profit organization, I met Karen with The Hugs Project. The Hugs Project is a great organization for our troops. Karen and her volunteers are able to offer our guys and gals over in the Middle East a little bit of home, something that our troops desparately need. Please help Karen and Hugs be able to send a little more home to our troops who cannot be here.

My husband and I started working with HUGS about 4 years ago. He became their primary HUGS material cutter. Having a system all of his own, I just assisted. Over the years, we think he cut over 100,000 of the 5" x 45" strips for the HUGS. He served in the Navy Reserves during the 1960's and was so pleased that he could help the troops now.
Sadly, he died in June of 2010. So many of the HUGS volunteers were at his service and sent cards and flowers. I am reminded constantly of his untiring work. I hope to "pick up the scissors" soon and begin cutting more material for HUGS. In November, family members and friends gathered to help pack boxes in Bob's memory. I'm sure he was smiling down on us.

I met Karen at the Miami Airport in Dec. and was blown away at her dedication and support she gives to our troops!!!This project (and Karen) are a blessing to the troops and to all of us who are being helped by our troops putting their lives on the line for our Freedom!!! God Bless Karen and the Hugs Project!!!!

The girls volunteered over 225 collective hours during their project year. The most important thing the girls learned is what it means to serve others and how even a 9 year old can make a difference in the life of another human being.

I've been with the HUGS Project for 6 years. I started when Karen was staying in a hotel where I worked. She handed me a knifty knitter and said "Here, you're just sitting around. Make a hat for a soldier!" So I did and have been volunteering as regularly as I can . My brother in law has been deployed twice and has recieved multiple packages which he distributes to his men. Another friend of mine from college is also an Army officer and has done the same. HUGS does so much good for so many people! They give people in Central Oklahoma a place to help our troops! Please consider donating or volunteering. Our men and women need all love from home that they can get!

I cannot thank The Hugs Project enough for all they do for our Troops! They are right there supporting every request they receive of a need for our Troops. I have submitted several names to them of friends in Iraq to include for my sister and The Hugs Project put them on their care package mailing list and sent them wonderful, wonderful packages! They cannot do enough for our Troops no matter what! It's not a job to them, it's Tender Loving Care for those we love who are in harm's way! I salute The Hugs Project!

I have Volunteered a few hours here & there to help the HUGS Project, but its been awhile since I've been able to make time to assist these awesome people who pour their lives into providing real essentials wih a healthy dose of home (the great USA) and love into boxes shipped across the miles to our men and women serving and sacrificing their very lives for our freedom. That's why I've marked my role as a general member of the public; I don't feel like I deserve to be in the same category as those who volunteer on a regular basis week after week, day after day to provide this remarkable service that they provide.

It's an honor for me to say that I've even been a part of this great organization & to have known Ray & Karen Stark. They definitely deserve this $5000 award and will put it to good use paying for shipping these donations to the wonderful men and women of our US armed services.

Several years ago I met some "Hugs" volunteers at a booth at "Global Oklahoma". They told me what they do to support our troops (America's bravest and strongest men and women). Because I do not take my freedoms for granted, "The Hugs Project" gave me a way to give the support to our troops that was lacking in the Vietnam era. My sister and I started volunteering weekly to sew, iron, and fill the cooling neckties (hugs) that have saved lives.
Although I cannot volunteer consistently, when I can, I go to "Crossroads" to help by sewing, by bagging snacks, first aid kits , and stationary packs, and by wrapping small, useful gifts. With the little money I can spare and the coupons that I can sometimes double, I watch for sales to buy coffee and tea, socks, hygene products andplaying cards, Chex mix, fig bars and raisins, as well as protein foods such as tuna, sardines, and peanut butter. I go to the thrift stores on half price days to collect mugs and tins, nylons to make "soaps on a rope", and 100% cotton sheets to dye (with tea if I can't afford dye) and cut out "hugs" and "kisses" (warming hat liners). Sometimes I can find school supplies and small toys for the troops to give to the children to lessen their fear of Americans. At home I have made quilt tops to back with fleece from fabrics I've gotten from " The Hugs Project". My husband (a Vietnam veteran) makes fudge that I know the troops appreciate. "The Hugs Project" has provided me with peanut butter, sugar, peanuts and syrup to make lots of peanut patties for the Christmas packages. When I have had no money to work with my grandchildren and I cheerfully collect leaves to press and send to troops serving in the desert (as reminders of home).
In early December 2010 I was filled with a sense of pride in our troops from Tinker AFB and all of the volunteers of all ages who turned out to help man two lines (in a bucket brigade fasion) in an effort to load mail trucks with 4,000 care packages; a goal that seemed impossible the week before.
The "Hugs Project" needs money for postage and for items that have not been donated in order to provide these "we care" packages that give needed moral support to the troops who sacrifice so much for our country.

The Hugs Project brightened the lives of over 6300 soldiers last year with care packages filled with "Hugs" cooling ties, food, candy, socks, personal hygiene items, books, games, powdered drink mixes, coffee, mini-binoculars, solar powered LED flashlights, handknitted neck pillows, etc. When needs arose for foot powder or socks, the troops contacted us for help! We have also been able to supply them with over 120 sewing machines and 2 wheelchairs for them to present to local citizens in their "Hearts and Minds" program which is meant to change opinions of Americans in the hearts and minds of the Middle Eastern citizens.

The Hugs Project provides such needed supplies to our troops overseas but they provide much more than that. They send a message to our troops that we support them and recognize their sacrifices and efforts. The soldiers leave their loved ones, their homes and sometimes their jobs to fight for what we believe in. They need to know we care. I began supporting this project because my husband's son was killed in Iraq and we wanted the troops to know that people here understand their sacrifice, sometimes with their life.

We have supported the "hugs" project for over 5 years now and have spread the word to others who we know are interested in the welfare of our military and who want to "do something" to support our troops.
We found that many people want to help and are thrilled to read the letters of thanks from those heroes who receive the "hugs" packages.
The expressions of amazement from the service members who open their packages, from total strangers, and find just what they need encourages us to spread the word through our church, our circle of friends and in other organizations who in turn contribute time and money. Being retired military, we can relate to the loneliness and isolation of our soldiers, so we want to do what we can for them. A group of RV owners that we informed has made over 2000 "hugs" cooling ties, hundreds of games and teddy bears, and thousands of prayer rocks. They say it is the least they can do to say "thank you" to our deserving military heroes.

For sometime a group of ladies in my church have made "Hugs Love Bears" to be sent to the service people to give out to children in troubled areas. We wondered if the task was productive until we heard from a
gentleman serving in Irag about a child who had received a bear. The story was very heart warming. So - we continue to make the bears. Hopefully we will be able to do others items in the future. We did at one time provide items like socks. Just receiving something from home helps show that we care and pray for safe journeys.

I became a volunteer for The Hugs Project to support and thank our troops. I am a former military wife and know from personal experience the difficulties and sacrifices our troops make every day. They give up their homes, their families, and their very lives to keep us safe. It is my pleasure and honor to help bring a little comfort to them.

I became a volunteer for 3 specific reasons. My son started getting care packages when he served in Iraq so I was curious about these strangers showing such support for him. I found a wonderful, diverse group of people with a single purpose; to send love and support to our troops. Finally it is the only non-profit organization I know of that spends 100% of its funds to fulfill its mission. There are no paid salaries, all of the equipment was donated, and even their work space is donated.

I am honored to be a part of this organization and look forward to continuing as they send love and support to our 3500 Oklahoma National Guard members deploying to Afghanstan.

I am writing in support of the Hugs Project started by Karen Stark. Just reading letters from the military who have received care packages is proof that this is so appreciated. I have made dozens of the cooling ties that are included in the care packages. Such an easy way to help out. There are so many volunteers, and this group has expanded to groups all over the USA. Karen is a tireless worker with excellent leadership and managerial abilities. She keeps us all enthused, such a great group to work with.

With so many of our armed forces in harms way, it is so good to know that with the HUGS project, they are not forgotten. HUGS truly cares about our military and their need to be taken care of by the rest of us.

The Hugs Project has been a very rewarding project for my Mother and myself because it allows us to serve those military personnel who are serving their country in harm's way. Because of the letters and emails received from the troops, I know the care package we construct and send make a difference and help make a difficult situation better. I believe these packages help sustain morale and improve the physical conditions endured on a daily basis. Every year, The Hugs Project does more and better services than the year before because we care.

I donate to this program because the money goes where they say it does. I have been there once and witnessed the dedication of the volunteers. Their untiring devotion to our servicemen and women serving in harms way is amazing. Then my son was deployed, they sent him a care package to share with his unit. Upon my son's second deployment the first thing he asked for was some hugs for his men. They provide much needed relief in a serious area of the world. Then when my son's unit was hit with several injuries, they sent another package with some cheer items. These men and women serve our military in a great unselfish act of kindness providing needed relief from the heat and a taste of home which keeps their moral up, which is vital to their survival.

Dedication, hard work, and patriotism are the three descriptive words that immediately come to mind when I think of the Hugs Project. Volunteering with them is a great experience in that there isn't a moment they are not working towards their awesome goals. Care packages are consistantly being packed, cooling ties and special gifts being made, and encouraging and supportive stories about the men and women serving overseas are talked about with great knowledge and compassion. Each time I volunteer (during this Christmas season, when 4,000 packages were put together, for example), I know for a fact fellow Americans are being provided with necessities and love from the volunteers.

I know when I give to the HUGS Project that my money and my time will be well spent. The HUGS Project has no paid staff or even rent fees to consume donations. The vast majority of the monies donated goes for postage to get as many packages as possible into the hands of our brave men and women serving in harm's way abroad.







My son was one of those young men. During his 15 month deployment he received a package from the HUGS project which he shared with the men and women he worked with--including Iraqis assisting the military. Each package we are able to send touches many--not only with essential things like food, HUGS, and survival bracelets; not only with the caring shown by all the little things thoughtfully included; not only by providing an opportunity for our soldiers to share with each other and those they are there to help; but also by impacting the lives of every person involved in those packages in a positive way. The person who donates money or goods and those physically filling the boxes are blessed. The recipients not only have their living conditions improved by the contents but are blessed by the love and caring behind each package.

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
My husband and me have been working with the Hugs Project for over 3 years. We have no one in service, but The Lord has blessed us in many ways so we want to give back. We look forward to Saturdays when we open the office in Oklahoma City, OK. and greet the volunteers who come to work. We assign them a job.

This project has opened up a new life for us. He is 84 and I'm 83.

Being Senior Citizens, our family wants us, but since they have their own families they don't always need us, so this fills that need.

Sincerely, Dennis and Helen Miller

I don't live in OK, but I went to help with a few of my friends and I LOVED it! I want to see more of this type of projects EVERYWHERE! Keep up the good work! You are an inspiration and you are appreciated!

I am part of an organization that began working with HUGS last year and we have tried to come monthly ever since. When seeing the passion all of the workers have for this job, it's hard to not want to work just as hard. With so many stories told from the ladies (there are some men too!), we can honestly say we are making a difference in the lives of soldiers and heroes. Some projects seem out there, but we know those fighting overseas love all they get and so we just love to join the HUGS project and help.

I visited the website to submit my sons name for a care package and I also visited the location in Crossroads Mall. I found a multitude of items being boxed for shipment. I was in awe of the community outpouring for this project. When it's that one soldier or airman, sailor or marine who doesn't have much family and no one really writes, receives a package. What a big surprise, someone cares, someone knows I am here and appreciates what I am doing for "Our Country". It's not what is in the package so much as the "HUG" it gives that service member.
Thank You HUGS Project INC.

The Hugs Project has been so helpful to so many of our military staff. Living in a military town, I see troops come and go and have spoken to many of them and they always say how much the appriciate getting packages and items during their deployment time. This group has worked with so many groups like the one that I belong to to help us to learn what items need to be sent. Great Job Hugs!

I only spent a few weeks working with the HUGS project in OKC before I moved to another state. I have never been with a more dedicated and enthusiastic group of people. They believe wholeheartedly in what they do and helping them lets us be connected to the men who are risking their lives for us. Please help them continue the wonderful work that they do.

I was looking for project for my Boy Scout Eagle project when I found The Hugs Project in 2009. I have been involved with them ever since. I like helping the soldiers and that is what this group does.

The HUGS Project has many volunteers that, like myself, give time, money and goods because the work serves a much higher purpose. The joy I receive from volunteering knowing that what I do provides more than joy - it often fills a void in the life of a deployed soldier. Often, these soldiers are so grateful that we cared enough to send a box of needed and cherished items they write to us and they sometimes drop by to give a personal thanks. When I realize what our work means to a deployed individual I am filled with pride for our fighting men and the HUGS Project.

I have volunteered with The Hugs Project for a couple of years now. They are a great group of patriots. They love our soldiers and work tirelessly to send them care packages. At Christmas time, they send out about 4000 packages. That's over $40,000 in postage alone! The leaders of the group are the most dedicated people I have ever met. It is an honor to be a part of this group.

I am very new to volunteering with the Hugs Project and I've only had a chance to help a couple of times. It didn't take long to realize the Hugs Project folks are extremely dedicated in ministering to our troops. When it comes to care packages, they cover all the basis. Treats, good reading, nifty little games for our troops to share with each other and play. And lots more great things in those packages. Can anyone say? KEEP 'EM COMING HUGS!!! The Hugs Project must go on. I cannot imagine them not being around. I know many troops have been blessed by them. I look forward to helping them out more in the near future.

I am starting my 3rd year volunteering with The Hugs Project one day per week (sometimes more). I have a great time supporting our troops overseas and enjoying the company of fellow volunteers (all great people). Our "pay" is the joy we receive in reading letters and emails sent to us from the troops expressing their appreciation and their knowing that someone at home cares about them. Ray & Karen Stark work hard, unpaid, long hours to see that as many "care packages" as possible are packed and sent to our "defenders of freedom". DW-OKC

I volunteer with the college group I'm involved in and we love coming to the HUGS Project. To say these people are passionate is a true understatement. Everyone who walks in the store knows the purpose behind all that they do. Not one single thing is wasted and much thought goes into the package contents. It is a great cause and I will definitely support them in the future.

This is an outstanding orgnaization that has taken the time to reach out to deployed service members. It means that world to each of us to get a box full of goodies from the home front. The support is phenomenal and it is the thoughtfulness that keeps us motivate to keep pushing through to accomplish the mission. I happened to receive a couple of boxes while deployed to Kabul Afghanistan.

When I was serving in the Middle East I was at my lowest. My family all died when I was younger so I had no one supporting me. When mail was called, I was the only one in my unit that knew there would be nothing for me; not everyone received things but at least they had that hope. Not me, I knew no one even cared that I was serving my country far from home. But, one day that changed. When my friend came back from picking up mail, he had a huge smile as he laid a box on the foot of my cot. I told him he’d made a mistake but he pointed to my name on the label and said, “Isn’t that you?” I couldn’t believe it but man, I cried like a baby when I realized it wasn’t a dream. Someone knew. Someone cared. It was from the Oklahoma City chapter of The Hugs Project and their letter said that they appreciated me and that they respected me for the job I was doing. Reading that, I cried even harder. You can never know how good I felt and still feel even now. I hope that someday, I can meet some of these good people so that I can throw my arms around their necks and let them know that they made a difference in the life of some lonely soldiers far from home…especially this one. Respectfully, Jessica Stanwick

The Hugs Project has given me a way to personally thank the men and women who are serving our country and facing danger to make certain our country remains safe. My late friend Jim Johnson was able to have his son placed on the list of brave men who received boxes. His son shared his gifts with those who served with him. Jim was proud of his son and grateful to an organization who let us volunteer to show those serving our country our pride in them and our gratitude for them. Robert B. Weil

I am currently deployed to Iraq and they have sent my unit packages for every Holiday and even just random care pacakages. Everything they send is useful and really boosts the morale of the unit. It is great to see a group of people that are this supportive of the troops, keep up the good work! Kenny

Thank you so much for your support of all of us deployed to foreign lands! What you do reminds us of how great a nation we have! God Bless America! - Gordon, Iraq

We appreciate all the support of the volunteers back home. It is tough to be away from loved ones for such long periods and it means a lot when we are deployed to receive messages and packages. Thanks for all that you are doing. Know that it is a great boost over here and we truley appreciate the effort and support from all of you back home!!

Thank you to the Hugs Project for ensuring that there's always someone back home who appreciates the service that we do for our country.

In my humble experience, the HUGS project is nothing short of outstanding! I look forward every month for something form them. God bless all that are involved in this great project. Little things that they send make a big difference! From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU!

Hugs Project is a great way to show Servicemembers that their service is appreciated. My thanks for Hugs Project for all their support to our Servicemembers serving in today's global contingency operations!

I came to Hugs probably six years ago frustrated that I was 60 years old and felt I wasn't doing anything to be supportive of our soldiers, especially those in Iraq. Working in the midst of other concerned Americans gave me a good feeling that I was finally doing something to help. The thank you letters from the soldiers make our efforts especially worthwhile. In compiling the care packages there is work for all ages from sorting, cutting, sewing, ironing, gathering, taping, writing messages, even making games. It's a well-managed, well-organized effort that always needs helping hands and financial support for postage. It's a privilege to be associated with this group and its leaders who find the energy to keep going year after year.

I have been a Hugs Project member for more than five years. This group is unselfish in it's support of the Troops around the world. After persoanlly sending many boxes filled with cooling ties (HUGS), helmet coolers (KISSES), neck pillows, etc., the most heart warming email I received was a very sincere "Thank You" from one soldier who was grateful for a bar of soap I had sent. He had lost his soap and couldn't replace it. His note brouhgt tears to my eye. Such thanks for so little, I thought. These men and woman put their lives on the line for us. The least we can do is send them America's thanks. I support the Hugs Project and everything they do for our Troops.

WOW!!! What to say about this awesome group of caring people? They kept me sane while my husband was deployed. I spent way too much time worrying before I started working with them. After I went to their office and worked my frst Saturday, I found myself taking work home and as I spent more time making things to send in care packages, I spent less time worrying about myself. This project's good for the troops but it's also good for the vounteers and for the military families. Way to go HUGS!!! You guys ROCK!! Jen

I became acquainted with HUGS about 4 years ago. My aunt (89 at the time) and I purchased materials and made the Cool Tie (neck Hugs) for the troops. We found about about The HUGS Project and started working with them. My husband is also involved. We have helped at Christmas time packing the boxes. We spread the word via the internet and through friends and with our church. HUGS is very well run. A very small percentage of the funds raised is spent on anything other than postage or items for the troops. Volunteers meet 3 times a week and go quietly about their tasks of making cool ties and other items. Everyone is so friendly. Kids from the age of 5 and adults to the age of 85 or so meet and work together doing any job that is needed that day. I feel as though I am contributing greatly to help boost the morale of the troops and their families. People give of themselves whether it is time, money, or articles or just saying prayers. It is a great way to volunteer and the founders, Karen and Ray, are so dedicated to the project and to our troops. The enthusiasm is contagious. My granddaughters (13 and 11) want to go to HUGS to work all of the time. I see that they go as often as possible as I believe that they need to know why people are sacrificing for their freedoms.

My family and I just volunteered for the first time a couple of weekends ago and truely enjoyed it. We spent about 5 hours with them and they are the sweetest people and they really care about what they are doing. My family and I are planning on volunteering again and making it a regular thing for us!

The Hugs Project have sent packages to addresses I have provided to them. All the troops have been thrilled to receive "Hugs & Kisses". I also had the honour of working with Karen & Ray at a VFW convention in Orlando several years ago. They worked hard, to raise funds to send packages to our troops on the home front. These hard working dedicated troop supporters inspire many others to work along side of them, and they never forget that have troops needing their help, daily. Thank you volunteer folks of the Hug Project.

The Hugs Project is one of the most worthwhile non profits I have found in a long time. Our men and women serving should know how much we care about them. Some of them do not have family that care or can send them things from home that remind them of the place they will be coming back to. This project does that, it makes every soldier feel like they have a piece of home right there in the horrible war conditions they are subject to. My son did a food fundraiser at his school for the HUGS and he has been there twice so far to help fill boxes. It has been a very rewarding experience for my whole family. It makes you remember who fights for the great country we live in and the freedom that is provided.

I have helped at "hugs", for 5 years, can't imagine being anywhere else on Wednesdays. if you can't sew or knit,[there is always ironing!!] re-packaging items that come in plastic, or cardboard; we use thousands of ziplock bags, all sizes,,,think of new ways to make life a little easier for the TROOPS . The children love to help, whether it is tearing open boxes, or drawing pictures on boxes to be mailed.We are also there on Thursdays and Saturdays. As I have learned to say , Y'ALL COME SEE US. you will be impressed.

I feel The Hugs Project is a great charity. Not only do my parents devote numerous hours cutting the material for the hugs and spending time at the center volunteering, my daughters are also very involved. The ask, beg, plead to go out there to help. It is very rewarding as a parent to have children who want to spend time on spring break, christmas break or during the summer help a worth while project. My youngest has even invited a friend to go with here and see what it is like. Both of my girls were given a monetary gift about 6 months ago. Both of them came to me asking if they could give a portion of it to HUGS.

My wife & I first learned about The Hugs Project in December of 2008 just before Christmas. We decided to see what it was about and started helping out in the "arcade" packing boxes and making chocolate-covered pretzels to send to the troops. We also spent an early morning at Will Rogers Airport seeing off young soldiers who were going home for Christmas from Ft. Sill. We attended a "members meeting" shortly after that and somehow ended up on the board. Through that we have learned more about "Hugs" and have become more involved. I volunteer weekly (unless out of town) and enjoy it immensely. It is "the least" I can do for those young men and women in harms way protecting my family and our country. God bless them all. Also, I have the pleasure of working along side some of the nicest, most giving people you could ever meet. I can lay my head down at night knowing that I have done something worthwhile and realizing that because of our troops I have a place to "lay my head" at night. Most people are busy these days just trying to get through life. If you find yourself with a little extra money in your pocket, then "Hugs" is a good place to put it, or if you have extra time then "Hugs" is a good place to spend it. You won't regret it.

The HUGs project sent care packages to my men in Afghanistan. They sent cool teck ties (hugs) and helmet liners (kisses) to keep us cool in the 140 degree summers. They also sent blankets and Christmas gifts in the winter. Of course lots of groups are charitable like the HUGS Project, but there was something different about this group. The members wanted to do more than send boxes. They sent correspondance and lots of love. They took a personal interest. They linked my men with other families in a broad network of sharing and fraternity. I guess that might seem ok to some people, but the needs of the modern combat Soldier, Sailor, Marine, and Airman are great so I found it to be Heaven Sent! We needed a means to vent frustrations as we were under massive stress. We needed to feel a sense of belonging as we missed our own families terribly. We needed to feel like what we did was a service the American people desired and appreiciated. The HUGs Project fulfilled these needs for us. In our darkest hours, they were the Cavalry who came to our rescue. I know these folks all deserve ample thanks and they all have my eternal appreciation, but specifically I wanted to thank Lee Coe, Dawn Case, and Debbie Cappel. These three cared for me on a personal level and even connected with my familiy back home. If the HUGs volunteers are all saints, then these three women are most assuredly angels. God bless the HUGS Project and God Bless America. Sincerly MAJ Curtiss Robinson, ARSIC-S Police Mentor Team Chief, Shahjoy district, Zabul province.

For those who want to feel like their money is well spent and their time is going to a worthy cause, the HUGS Project fits the bill. First, there are no salaries or huge overhead, so I know the vast majority of any monies donated goes to the actual ministry. Second, the cause of supporting our soldiers is certainly one which I can support.

This group is one of the most together groups I have volunteered for. The Hugs Project keeps you informed what is needed, how to do it, where to send it and when they will be working on putting the donations together. I have sent many packages to names they have given me and participated in their troop projects. Their guidance is unsurpassed and I am sure the troops on the receiving end of their work would give them a thumbs up. Keep up the good work and our troops will be well taken care of. Thanks!!

These are some of the most dedicated people I have ever met. They go full tilt almost all the time to make sure that their mission to support our troops is carried out. Sometime I have wondered if the Starks and their workers ever sleep. Still, when you visit their 'command post' at Crossroads Mall, everyone is so pleasant and helpful and besides the cool tie (HUGS) and goodies they put in those boxes, you can always get the other kind of HUGS too. This is just a great group working hard for a great cause! Jingles

Wonderful, wonderful organization. I appreciate that my kids can actively volunteer for such a positive group! We look forward to returning many times. Thank you!

This is the best group anyone could ever hope for. Our members are dedicated to supporting Americans far from home. We were the first ones to send cooling ties to the troops serving in the Middle East. We call them "hugs" since they go around the neck and we think all our troops deserve a {{{hug}}}. Cooling ties can reduce body core temps by 5+ degrees helping save our troops from heat stroke deaths. I want to thank every member who has ever made a cooling tie, packed a box, written a letter, made a homemade goodie or prayed for these brave young men and women. Without you, there would be no Hugs Project. Respectfully, Karen Stark Founder/Executive Director

I have been involved with The Hugs Project for about 7 years. When I found out that the hugs we sew can save lives by cooling our troops during those severe summer temps that they have to serve in, I got busy, bought 100% muslin by the bolt, made myself a hug turner with the info on our website, bought pounds of water sorb crystals and sewed and sewed and sewed. I love knowing that I have done something to help those young men and women that serve our nation so well. I also write letters every week to individuals who don't get much mail. If they respond by email, and some do, I email them once a week also. But that letter goes into the mailbox every week as well. I send them crossword puzzles, word search games and Sunday comics, too. They need to feel that connection with home in the simple things and know that their service is keeping life good at home for all of us.

My family, especially my daughter, helped to start this wonderful group. We sponsored the original group hug at our church, attended many of the next several and developed tools and techniques with them. My little girl has grown up presenting this project to 4-H kids, fair goers, and many other groups, meanwhile making large numbers of hugs, and sending many packages. Having been intimately involved in the early progression from idea to working group, we know exactly how much good and on how tight a budget this group can work near miracles in helping our troops! It's GREAT!!! It made my daughter and my family more caring, more sharing, and more aware. It was clear when we were on TV several times that it would be a wonderful project, but just how big it has gone is a fantastic surprise. It is terrific to look back and think about the first donation big enough to acquire water holding crystals in a 50 pound bag... big enough to make many hundred Hugs and big enough to get so many people involved. Its time to deliver more hugs to the group... and time for the weather to go higher on the thermometer than most of us will ever see it, so time to get busy again!

I found The Hugs Project 5 years ago when I was looking for a way to support our troops. My son had just joined the Marines and I wanted to do something that would also help him when he deployed. I was very impressed with the group when Karen received a request from a higher-up Marine in Iraq for 10,000 Hugs and the various groups had them made and sent within 3 to 4 weeks!! Reading the "Thank yous" received makes me realize that this is something very important to our military and I am grateful to continue to be a part of it!

I started volunteering with The Hugs Project when my brother was deployed in 2006. He and his unit requested 1000 cool ties and recieved them that summer. I started a group in Kansas City,MO, and it has been supporting those men and women everyday since. I love the way that this group has brought support to the community, those left behind during deployment, and those that are away. I have also been thoroughly impressed with the kindness of the community and their donations during fundraiser efforts.

I have worked with the Hugs Project in OKC for 2 1/2 years and I see the wonderful response received from the military men and women who have received our care packages. It is a very worthwhile organization helping those who serve us everyday in harms way.

The Hugs project is an amazing group of people who truly care about our troops. Karen and the gang, never batted an eye when I asked for cold weather gear for my son and his platoon in the mountains of Afghanistan this past winter, now that things are HOT! They graciously sent over 40 cool ties to my son's platoon, making sure there were enough for everyone. They have included my son on their care package list, when I was financially unable to send packages to him. Often as a marine mom we learn of other young men and women who are deployed but who are receiving little or no mail from home. I have passed these names on to the hugs project as well, and they made sure to add them to their lists. My son called and said mom, Marine X got a package today from the Hugs Project and he said it made him so happy that someone thought of him. He couldn’t believe that someone he didn’t even know sent him this wonderful box. What a morale booster. Everyone always shares with each other but it is nice when you get a box addressed to you. I am so grateful for all the support my son and his fellow marines, as well as all the troops they support, receive from this outstanding organization. There just are NO words to completely express my gratitude to them. God Bless, "The Hugs Project" and all of the volunteers who work so hard to support our troops.

The Hugs Project is truly an amazing selfless organization that functions solely to support and serve our military who are serving in harms way! This group of volunteer men and women throughout our nation sacrifice their time and resources to send letters and packages from home to our service men and women, and I am deeply honored and proud to be a small part of it. The leadership of the group stretches every donated dollar for its maximum benefit on behalf of the military. They are also incredibly protective of the security of the names of our servicemen & women. It is truly an organization to be commended to the highest for its purpose and mission!

I am extremely impressed at the dedication of all the volunteers with this project to support our troops. The founders and volunteers work tirelessly to find needed funding and new ideas for items that will make our troops lives a little easier. I coordinated our staff Day of Service Project and everyone came away with a sense of pride that we could contribute to such a worthy cause.

Everyone says, "been there, done that" but I really have. Served in both Iraq and then again 2 times in Afghanistan. America's troops are doing a hard job without adequate supplies and it's groups like The HUGS Project that keep us going and motivated. We feel like these people are the true heroes. We're just doing our jobs. They don't have to do what they do but they do it because they care about us and that's better than gold. I've gotten care packages with hugs in them and just want to say thank you to each and every member who's ever packed a box or written a letter to let us know that you haven't forgotten we're still over here. May God continue blessing America and the good people of The HUGS Project.

The Hugs project is an awesome prgram. It provides a valuable service to members of the military in harms way. I enjoy being a part of this organization as a volunteer and feel I could never do as much as they have done.

I had been a member of the HUGS PROJECT since 2004 after reading an article in our local paper. My husband is a Viet Nam vet and I wanted a way to help our young men and women in the military. Even though I have never met the "hugs" members in person, I feel like I've known them forever. We are all supportive of each other in various endeavors. It's the best group on the Internet with the biggest heart for our troops.

I joined this group and many others to support my Soldier. Evan is just back from Afghanistan. The wonderful folks at the Hugs Project sent him several care packages during his year of deployment. They also inspired me to work with a group of friends to make Hugs and send them to Evan's unit to help keep them cool over there!

I am so impressed with the work this group has done and is continuing to do for our military. As the mom of a soldier who has been deployed for almost a year, receiving care packages are a welcomed and treasured event. They are a connection from home and something that everyone looks forward to. Thank you to all who have had their loving hands involved in taking care of these courageous young men and women.

The Hugs Project is a consistent and wonderful project that supports our troops. The people that work with the project are to be commended for their big hearts and hard work.

I had been a member of other groups helping our troops, but stayed the longest the HUGS PROJECT since 2006. The people in this group have the biggest hearts for our troops and all is given in a great grass roots effort. Ideas fly from one end of the country to the other to help everyone with any ongoing project. We support each others sons, daughters, wives, husbands and complete strangers. The energy these people generate is fantastic. Groups of various sizes connected with the HUGS PROJECT are all over the country of varying degrees of members, all with the same effort of helping and letting our troops know we are here for them. The largest pitfall is obtaining money for postage, whether with the group or individually. The thank you notes we receive usually brings a lump to the throat, and many tears. Tears of joy knowing we will never forget our troops. I remember the returning Viet Nam troops, and I will never let that happen again. Our troops have our backs. The least we can do is give them a 'hug' and let them know we are here for them.

I joined The Hugs Project in 2006 and am now president of the Elkhart, IN chapter. I've organized our groups here, made hugs, knit wool items for winter, bought care package items, helped with fund raisers and anything else I can to grow THP in our area. It is a wonderful organization and I've been blessed to be part of it.

The Hugs Group is a wonderful organization. I wish I could do more monetarily to help them out for all that they do. My son is deployed to Afghanistan at this time and I know how important it is when these men receive packages and items to help make it more comfortable for them. I am hoping when I finish school and am in a better financial situation to be able to make a contribution for them. Thank you Hugs for all your do for our Men and Women!

I first heard of The Hugs Project in 2007 through our state extension organization, Oklahoma Home and Community Education. One of OHCE's goals was military support, and The Hugs Project serves as a channel, focusing those efforts. We received patterns and training from them and made the cooling ties ("HUGs"), learned how to pack care boxes for shipping, and enjoy the reward of knowing that what we do really makes a difference to the troops. The care packages not only boost morale and provide personal touches from home, they also supply much-appreciated items otherwise unavailable in rugged field conditions. I know The Hugs Project will be there to assist when my sons deploy, and they will know that someone besides direct family members appreciates the sacrifices they make.

My late wife, Marlene, heard about The Hugs Project and quickly immersed herself in creating HUGS neck coolers and other useful articles. She worked by herself in Tulsa, buying all the needed materials in bulk and every month or two, we would jointly pack and ship boxes to our valiant and dedicated troops overseas. Being a Vietnam Vet, I wanted to help and Marlene had incredible talents - so we made a good volunteer group!! We got addresses from Karen and occassionally received warm thank you notes from serviceman. One I got 2 weeks after her untimely death. Shortly thereafter I was able to give all the supplies Marlene had accumulated for future HUGS shipments, also had a garage sale and donated the funds to HUGS. It is an awesome group with tiny overhead and lots of dedicated volunteers.

I have belonged to this organization since at least 2005. I have never seen an instance where the members of this group are doing things for them selves. This group is all about helping our troops overseas, especially the ones in harms way. In fact sometimes imaginations work over time and we have too many ideas for helping our troops. The fact remains that the goal of the Hugs Project remains firm- " a Hug to those serving our country.

I helped to make Hugs for this organization to send to the troops that they love so much. My son was stationed in Iraq and was a recipient of their care packages. Their patriotism and love of our troops puts them at the top of the list of organizations to support in any way possible. Keep up the good work Hugs Project Inc