Despite what’s turned out to be an abnormal year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the national non-profit Soldiers’ Angels is operating its annual Treats For Troops collection of excess Halloween candy for deployed service members and veterans undergoing treatment at VA Hospitals.
“For our deployed troops, something as simple as a box full of candy can be a huge morale booster,” said Amy Palmer, CEO and President of Soldiers’ Angels, “and our hospitalized veterans appreciate the gesture as well. The VA’s have been closed to visitors and volunteers for months (and many still are) and these veterans are feeling even more isolated than normal. Last year we collected over 100,000 pounds of candy and we hope to have an equally successful drive this year!”
Businesses and organizations can register to become a candy collection site. According to Palmer, the most popular businesses that participate are dental offices— but it is a great program for any location— gyms, schools, churches, and more. “Families with too much candy after Halloween are also encouraged to donate excess candy, and for those who are opting out of handing out candy this year, why not consider donating a bag or two to Soldiers’ Angels Treats For Troops?” Palmer suggests.
Collection site registration ends on October 31st at midnight ET, and each collection site may determine how long they will collect candy as long as Soldiers’ Angels receives the candy donations by December 31st.
Palmer also points out that during a normal year, Soldiers’ Angels volunteers divide the donated Halloween candy into gift-sized baggies, tie a ribbon around the baggie and prepare them to be handed out at various events throughout the holiday season.
“This year, due to COVID, the availability of our volunteers to come together to do this will be limited,” said Palmer. “If you’re looking for a great activity at home or the office, we could use your help creating these candy baggies.”
To learn more about this volunteer opportunity and more, visit: https://soldiersangels.org/