I have started working with a local Support-the-Troops organization in PA, called Keystone Soldiers (they support all military branches, anywhere deployed). We just did a campaign on my campus to sign letters of thanks and support to deployed servicemen (and women), and to donate toward care packages and postage. Considering the political atmosphere on most American campuses, this was a big step. In addition, the Keystone people told me they have a real need for appropriate Jewish-focused items to put in holiday care packages (they mean December, you know), and asked if I could help with that. The religious school at our synagogue would like to take on this project, so I need to make suggestions of items to include. I’ve thought of:

dreidels
chocolate coins
small bags of raisins
individual apple sauce cups

And then I run dry. I would welcome any other suggestions! I mean, you can’t put potato latkes in a care package, can you?

Lynn, PMM of Pfc Ethan, USMC

How about tin menorahs and colored candles?  In quantity, you can get the set for under 2.00.

Dee
Jewish Prime Vendor for the Military

Are candles okay to send in care packages? I noticed on one site about care packages that nothing flammable (like cigarette lighters and matches) is supposed to be sent. Maybe candles aren’t flammable, though, without matches?

Lynn

Candles aren’t flammable, and fire is probably available other ways.  We ship candles and menorahs to troops all over the world all the time, albeit not in ‘care packages’, rather as a ‘regular order delivery’.

Dee