Imagine being thousands of miles from home during the holidays, opening a box from strangers, and finding a soft handmade scarf and a letter that says, "Thank you. We're thinking of you." That moment is what Operation Gratitude has been creating for more than 23 years.
It started in 2003 when the founder met a soldier who felt forgotten, and mailed four care packages from her living room. Today, with help from hundreds of thousands of volunteers each year, Operation Gratitude has sent more than 4 million care packages to deployed troops, veterans, first responders, and military families.
The chance they need
In the cold winter months, Operation Gratitude includes a handmade hat or scarf in every care package sent to deployed troops, and that takes a lot of knitters and crocheters. Their Handmade With Love Holiday Challenge is inviting volunteers across the country to help right now.
- Knit or crochet warm hats and scarves.
- Sew, make paracord lanyards, or create small crocheted keepsakes for those who serve.
- Donate blank greeting cards so service members can write home.
- Their website has guidelines for each item, so check them before you start.
No yarn? You can still give this chance
- Write a thank-you letter. Letters are often the most treasured part of a care package. Address it simply, like "Dear Service Member," "Dear Veteran," or "Dear First Responder," and keep it warm and positive. Children's drawings are welcome too. Operation Gratitude's Virtual FOB has letter templates and toolkits.
- Make it a group project. Letter-writing and crafting circles are wonderful for classrooms, scout troops, senior centers, clubs, and families.
- Give a donation. Operation Gratitude says about $25 helps send a care package.
- Thank someone near you. Drop off a card or treats at your local fire station, or simply say thank you to a veteran you know.
Gratitude is one of the simplest chances we can give. A few kind words or an evening of knitting can travel a very long way.
Chances.org doesn't collect items or money for this cause; please connect directly with Operation Gratitude. Program details can change, so check their website for the latest guidelines, and check before you give to any cause.
See all Chances Needed, draw the Encouragement Notes card, or read How to Start Volunteering.