The South Valley Chamber has launched the Taste of Home Care Packages service project to collect snacks, treats, and handwritten notes for active-duty service members. This initiative serves as part of the recognition of America's 250th anniversary.
According to a notice from the South Valley Chamber, donations are being accepted through August 26. The project aims to culminate in a community care package assembly event on September 9 with a goal of packing 500 care packages.
The care packages will consist of shelf-stable snacks and comfort items. These items, which include granola bars, candy, beef jerky, food flavoring, and hydration packets, are recommended by military veterans and members of the Utah National Guard.
Jay Francis, President and CEO of the South Valley Chamber, stated that the project provides a way to give service members a small reminder of home. He noted that the project offers a simple way for the community to say thank you to those serving the country.
The initiative was introduced during the Chamber's Let's Do Lunch: South Valley Honors event. During that event, approximately 100 attendees wrote thank-you cards for deployed service members following remarks from Nicole Handy, executive director of America250 Utah, and Steve Rosenvall, CEO of Alpha Warranty and a military veteran.
Rosenvall, a military veteran, stated that familiarity and comfort from home are highly valued while deployed.
Community members can support the project by writing thank-you notes, making monetary contributions, purchasing items through the Amazon registry, attending the September 9 packing event, or sharing the initiative.
Information regarding the Amazon registry, downloadable thank-you card templates, and event registration is available at www.southvalleychamber.com/taste-of-home/.
