We've Gotten Mail

We have received mail from some of the troops.  In one instance, our boxes were received in a week.  Here are the comments:

"We received our stockings yesterday and I gave them to the Soldiers and
they were so happy that someone thought of them. On behalf of every Soldier in my unit I just want to Thank you for caring about our troops!  Your support enables us to continue our mission and lets the troops know they're appreciated and not forgotten about. So please let all of your volunteers know that each stocking was received with much gratitude and appreciation."

"First of all, we received the stockings and we're all surprised how fast they got here. We'd like to personally thank you for everything that you do to support our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. You really have no idea how much it means to us to receive the stockings from someone that we've never even met before. We'd also like to point out that your story was very touching and we wish God's blessings upon you and your family. Please extend our gratitude to everyone that supports Operation Holiday Stockings. This act of kindness which you provide keeps us proud to be in the military and willing to defend our nation. The generosity and professionalism from you and your supporters will forever be etched in our hearts."

This is why we do what we do. 

In total we sent out 1550 stockings this year.  In the six years we have been doing this, we have sent out 6611 stockings.  Not bad for a small nonprofit made up of a lot of volunteers from all over the United States.  Thank you to all of you who help with this effort.  As you can see, it is important that we continue to do this. 

We will be sending stockings out again next year, so start knitting, crocheting, sewing, decorating, and collecting goodies.  We are accepting donations all year so you don't have to wait for the holiday season to get into gear.  There are several of you who knit stockings in the summer months when small projects work best in hot weather, including me. 

Speaking of stockings, one of the volunteers asked if she could use our "official" pattern to make stockings for the kitties at PAWS.  Of course she can, and look at this. 

I love this.  What a fun way to make the facility look festive and inviting for the holidays. 

Not so sure what this kitty thinks of this stocking, but I do know this kitty and all of the other kitties at PAWS would love a new family for the holidays.

TTFN

Sue