My Nonprofit Reviews

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.

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