The Catskill Chronicle

MONTICELLO, NY – Stephanie and Craig Johnson, together with family and friends have sent over 20 tons of care packages to solders stationed overseas. “It’s a way to build up the morale,” says Stephanie. Each box is sent to an individual soldier, who then shares their box with other soldiers.

The local branch of Operation Support our troops is seeking donations – food, non-food, and monetary donations (to help with shipping) for their next shipment. For drop-off locations, date and time to volunteer with packing, and other information about how you can help, contact the Johnsons by mail: Craig and Stephanie Johnson, 279 Cantrell Road, Monticello, NY 12701, phone: (845) 796-2339 or e-mail:Osot2004@aol.com

The troop wish list and items currently needed are as follows:

Food items:

· Trail mix

· Slim Jims

· Beef jerky

· Granola bars/breakfast bars

· Peanuts

· Hard candy (individually wrapped)

· “Chiclets”-type gum

· Pop-top canned pasta

· Ready-to-eat tuna pack

· Microwave popcorn

· Drink mix (individual single-serving packets for water bottles)

Non-food items — foot care:

· Tube socks (black or white)

· Foot powder

· Athlete’s-foot cream

· Band-Aids (for blisters)

Non-food items — other personal care:

· Baby Wipes

· Toothbrush/toothpaste

· Deodorant

· Body wash (no soap)

· Non-medicated eye drops

· Lens wipes (found in Vision Centers)

Next packing date: Wednesday, May 26 and Thursday, May 27

Monticello Elks Lodge, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monetary donations postage are always welcome.

The Johnsons know that the most important item needed for the care package is a letter from you. “Tell these young men and women that you appreciate their sacrifice. This is what makes these packages a ‘gift,’” says Stephanie.