Student Veteran Organization more than doubles care package goal

On March 27 and 28, the Student Veteran Organization (SVO) at Piedmont Virginia Community College held a drive to send care packages to service men and women overseas. SVO collected items for the packages through collection boxes in the Bolick Center, and the organization also accepted cash donations for the postage.

“The packages that have been put together consist of personal hygiene items such as deodorant, toothbrushes and toothpaste, foot powder and then items including snacks, games and DVDs,” said Mathew Canfield, a member of SVO. “Originally we were looking to send somewhere around 20 care packages. We raised enough money and collected items to have 54 fully packed and ready-to-go care packages, more than doubling our initial goal.”

Care packages have been a stable support system of service members for decades. The care package program was initially set up in 1945. The program was originally designed to send relief to Europe, where a large number of people were at risk of starvation in the wake of World War II.

The care package is a tool to help non-military citizens show their appreciation for the troops’ continued service to the United States. These packages help to boost morale and tell the soldiers that the American people have not forgotten about them.

“Based on how successful this event was, I imagine the club will continue to do this. I have encouraged them to do it once a semester,” said Canfield.

For those who would like to offer support outside of these types of events, there are organizations that participate in delivering care packages year round. Organizations that participate include Operation Gratitude, Hero Box and Goodygiftbox.com, and each offers a variety of different care packages that start as low as $10, including shipping and handling.