Blue Star Moms hold troop holiday package drive

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The holidays are almost here and one local organization wants to make sure our troops are remembered.

It's the simple things in life the Central Valley Blue Star Moms want to bring to local troops serving our country during the holiday season. "Because our children serve, we're going to serve as well. We want to do things that make them happy as much as we can while they're over there," said Rhonda Gilmore, Central Valley Blue Star Moms.

The "Remember The Troops" care package drive is currently underway and the group is collecting non-perishable food items. Gilmore and Chris Hofmann are both members of the Blue Star Moms, mothers who have, or had, children serving our country. They know how tough this time of year can be.

"More than anybody can imagine. Because you don't know what they're doing. They're sitting there by themselves on Christmas Eve and you have your family all around, and, it's hard not to have them with you," said Hofmann.

They hope these packages will send a little piece of home to where they're serving.

Businesses across the area have set up donation sites, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory at Fashion Fair is holding a fudge drive. "So you come in. You purchase a pound of fudge and we will match your purchase and donate a pound of fudge to the troops," explained Latricia Adkins, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory owner.

The Blue Star Moms said they currently are in need of items, money for postage, and the addresses of service members with Valley ties. They say these boxes will mean the world during a difficult time. "So, this may be the one thing they get when they're in harm's way," said Gilmore.

Just one-percent of the population joins the service, and the moms hope to honor these military members.

The Remember Our Troops package drive lasts until November 17th. Then, Santa will send these packages around the country and the world.

More Details visit cvbluestarmoms.org

Drop off sites:

Ethan Allen Design Center

7925 N. Blackstone Ave.

Fresno, CA 93720

Batter Up Pancakes

8029 N Cedar Ave

Fresno, CA 93720