REPUBLICANS COLLECTING FOR “BELMAR OPERATION: USO CARE PACKAGE”

September 16, 2010, BELMAR, NJ – The Belmar Republican Club is collecting donations for “Belmar Operation: USO Care Package” which sends care packages and personal messages to deployed American troops around the world. Belmar resident Jim Bean, who spent eight years in the Marines, is spearheading the effort to help local residents express their thanks and support for our men and women in uniform.

“After four years of active duty, I know firsthand how important it is to know that your fellow Americans support your efforts as a soldier,” says Jim Bean. “When you are in a faraway place with unfamiliar languages, sounds, foods, there is nothing more comforting than a letter and package from home.”

Mr. Bean went on to say that the due to heightened security, the Department of Defense does not allow items donated by individuals to be included in packages. Mr. Bean says that it costs $25 to sponsor one care package, which provides the soldier with the most needed and requested items valued at $75.

“Twenty-five dollars covers the cost of the items, which are purchased by the USO at a deep discount, as well as shipping costs. The packages are assembled by volunteers, so there are no handing charges,” he adds.

At a minimum, each care package includes a personalized message of support from the donor, an AT&T prepaid international phone card, snacks, playing cards, reading material, camo kits containing shampoo, conditioner, sun block, hand sanitizer, tooth paste, tooth brush, sunscreen and other requested and needed items. The USO works directly with the Department of Defense to distribute care packages where they are needed most.

“We hope to be able to provide care packages to 50 American soldiers this Christmas,” Mr. Bean adds, saying that in order to do so donations should be sent to the USO by November 1^st.

“This is our country. These men and women are fighting for our freedom. This is the very least we can do,” he concludes.

To support the “Belmar Operation: USO Care Package,” send your check for in $25 increments ($25, $50, $75 or $100) made payable to The USO and a personal note for each care package to Belmar Republican Club, PO Box 391, Belmar, NJ 07719.