My mother is a member of the Empty Nesters group at her church. They are collecting items to send to our troops, and I wanted to share the list of items with you. It’s amazing what little things can help make their stay more comfortable.
I need your help. I’d like to find sources who might be willing to donate some of these items, but I’m a total rooky at this. Are there stores who do NOT donate, and are there stores who would be likely to donate? Should I contact manufacturers rather than going to retail stores? What do I need to have with me, other than the list of goods needed, to make my pitch successful? I assume that I need to provide the name and address of the church, and a contact. What else should I provide to make my request a success?
I’d appreciate any assistance you can give me. This is a worthy cause.
Most needed
Tuna
Beef jerky
Gum, mints, hard candy, licorice
Nuts, salty snacks
Batteries
Non-aerosol insect repellant
Playing cards
Multi vitamins
Peanut butter
Crackers
Cookies
Socks
Sunscreen
Disposable cameras
CDs and DVDs
Also Needed
Snack size box cereals, instant oatmeal
Twinkies, Fruit Roll-ups
Trail Mix, Granola bars, Pop Tarts
Canned snack items: Pringles, DOritos, pretzels, Cracker Jack
Vacuum pack sealed foods: Salmon, meats, stew, chili, pasta, fruits, puddings
Rice Krispie Treats
Cheese & peanut butter w/crackers
Crystal Light, Kool-Aid
Cup of Soup, Ramen
Hot drinks: coffee, tea, spiced cider
Seasoned salt
Would Be Appreciated
Lip balm
Hand sanitizer
Cough drops, zinc drops, Tums
Toilet paper, pocket sized Kleenex
Laundry detergent tablets
Small games, dominos
Anti-itch cream
Body powder, Gold Bond powder
Flip flops for the shower
Fabric softener sheets
Note cards, writing journals, pens
Non-medicated eye drops
Vitamin C lozenges
Athletes foot spray
Fly swatters, fly paper, mouse traps
Paper dust masks
Mole skin, blister pads
Baby wipes, facial cleansing pads
Gel insoles for boots
Fever cooling pads
Air fresheners: stick up, or car type
Word games, crossword puzzles
Not needed at this time: Toiletries