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"Goodies for our Troops" lacking donations
03/24/2012 04:52 PM
By: Bill Mich

On nearly a daily basis, the "Goodies for our Troops" volunteer group sends care packages overseas providing members of the armed forces with simple products we take for granted at home. But as our Bill Mich tells us, the group itself is in need of some help so it can continue to serve.

WELLSBORO, PA. -- Rice Krispy Treats, M&M's, Wet Wipes, Shampoo, and Toothbrushes. All items that we can easily get our hands on... but for members of the military overseas, those items have become a luxury. So, "Goodies for our Troops" and its volunteers pack those items up and sends care packages out nearly every day.

"They're kind of over there fighting for our freedom and stuff and it is something that is important to me to kind of give back because I know they are doing a lot for us out there," said volunteer, Brian McGroary.

But the amount of items the group has been able to send has diminished. In fact, since last year, donations to "Goodies for our Troops" have dropped about 40 percent. Volunteers with family members in active duty say the troops greatly appreciate the packages they receive and it's a way to send a little reminder of home.

"Just to send anything. And, if you're at Walmart, pick up an extra box of wet wipes or an extra sunscreen bottle, or anything. And bring it in. Or donate you're time,"said Elizabeth Kifer, who's husband in in active duty in the U.S. Army.

Fortunately, volunteers have not been hard to come by. Over 30 people were on hand stuffing boxes and wrapping packages Saturday. But whether she has a big group or does it alone, and has 15 boxes to send or just one, the founder of Goodies for our Troops says she is determined to pay her debt.

"I have always supported the troops and I have a very soft spot in my heart for the troops and I know I owe them, me living in the United States of America," said founder, Dawn Pletcher.

The group has been hard at work for seven years and has no plans of stopping until everyone is brought home.




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