Operation Gratitude is one of the programs GFWC of Manassas sponsors. Kait Anderson is our leader, having people write cards for our troops on Manassas First Fridays, overseeing our craft time paracord lanyard making, and collecting scarves, socks, playing cards, and other requested items. We collect until the box is full and send it off. Here is a thank you note from their CEO. It contains a note from an overseas recipient on what these boxes mean to them.
Dear Kaitlyn,
Thank you for your generous donation of 112 Wish List Items, 2 Assorted Items, 44 Handmade Items, 100 Letters, Wash cloths and supporting those who serve. Since our founding in 2003, with the help of grateful Americans like you, we have delivered over 3.8 million of our signature Care Packages to Deployed Troops, Veterans, Military Families, Recruit Graduates and First Responders.
A Care Package brings joy to a Service Member stationed far from home and enables a Veteran, Wounded Hero or Caregiver to feel appreciated -- many for the first time. Our Battalion Buddies bring comfort to the children of Deployed Troops at a very stressful time in their young lives. When we hand deliver Care Pouches to new Officer and Recruit Graduates, they know that as they begin their career of service to our great nation, they are supported along the way. And the delivery of First Responder Care Packages shows local heroes that their community values them in an often thankless job.
We recently received this email from a Care Package recipient deployed overseas:
Thank you! I wanted to personally reach out and say how much we appreciate the support you have shown from Operation Gratitude. I am currently on deployment and received one of the care packages; it has truly brought some extra joy into my life being so far from home. Please keep up the good work as I know there are many more of my brothers and sisters in the service that will be just as grateful as me. Again, thank you very much! Very Respectfully, AZ3 F, S.M. VAQ-132 "Scorpions"
Thank you again for your thoughtfulness and wonderful patriotic spirit. Every single donation we receive furthers our mission, and the recipients of your generosity will remember your kindness forever. As a Marine Mom and the Founder of this grass-roots organization, I will always be appreciative of your support and encouragement for Operation Gratitude. You are truly making a difference!
With Gratitude,
Carolyn Blashek
Founder, CEO
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