FAQs

Can I enclose a card for the service member to return to me?

Please do.  Pre-addressed post cards or notes can be included in your package.  Do not put stamps on these–the soldiers have the right to send cards and letters without postage from a war zone.

How can I receive names and addresses of soldiers?

Please click here and fill out the form.  We will have one of our coordinators contact you.

Once you send the care packages how long does it take to reach a destination?

Package delivery is between 2-4 weeks.

Where can I send or drop off donations for the care packages?

Our Operation Shoebox address is:

Hours:  Tuesday thru Saturday, 10AM – 4PM 

Should we put collected items into shoeboxes?

No.  Due to high postage fees, we are now requesting that people use gallon zip lock bags and place them in a larger cardboard box.  Or you can obtain free FLAT RATE BOXES from the Post Office, fill them to capacity (up to 40lbs) and then ship them to us.  Any wet items such as shampoo, lotion, etc. must be in separate zip lock bags. 

Is there any specific time of the year for sending items to Operation Shoebox.

No, we send care packages 50 weeks a year. 

Where do I send my old cell phones or ink cartridges?

Please follow these links for more information:

Cell phone donations

Ink cartridge donations 

How can I get stocking/ditty bag patterns?

The Programs tab on our Home page contains links for our craft patterns.  Or click on the links below:

Christmas stocking patterm

Ditty bag pattern

For additional sewing questions, please contact the person whose name is provided at the bottom of the instruction sheet for that pattern. 

I am unable to donate.  What are my other choices for helping our troops?

There are several ways to help.  Because we always include a hand written Thank You note in every care package, we are always in need of those.  Also, younger children can make or color pictures to be included, as our troops love receiving them.  Our mailing address is: