2018: What Does Operation Gratitude Do?

Operation Gratitude started out in March 2003 by sending care packages to U.S. Service Members in combat zones. Over the years, we have implemented several additional Care Package Programs in response to developing needs within the Military Community. On December 7, 2013, we celebrated our ONE MILLIONTH Care Package… and before 2017 is over, we will celebrate sending our TWO MILLIONTH Care Package!

Do you know ALL that we do?

Here is a list of all our on-going Care Package Programs:

Deployed Troop Care Package Program: Since 2003, we have assembled and shipped over 1 Million packages individually addressed to Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines deployed overseas in harm’s way. 

Battalion Buddy Program: We work with Family Readiness Officers and battalion leaders to send cuddly stuffed animal “Battalion Buddy” packages to the children of deploying service members. 

Wounded Heroes Program: Our Wounded Hero Care Packages provide comfort items to troops recovering in Military Hospitals and Wounded Warrior Transition Units.

Veterans Care Packages: We coordinate with VA Hospitals, Nursing Homes, Veterans’ Groups & Homeless Veteran Support Organizations to provide care packages for Veterans to let them know they are never forgotten and because, “It is never too late to say, ‘Thank You.’” 

First Responder Care Kits: Essential supplies are assembled into easily transportable kits, and provided to emergency response teams who serve our nation on the frontlines here at home: Law enforcement, firefighters and emergency medical technicians.

New Recruit Care Packages: This program thanks the newest members of the Military for stepping forward to devote the next several years of their lives in service to our nation. In addition to an assortment of hygiene, entertainment and hand-made items, each Care Package includes a “Loved One Medallion,” a specially designed Operation Gratitude keepsake for the New Recruit to share with a special family member or friend.

Disaster Relief Supplies: Basic necessities, including food, toiletries, household products, blankets and clothing are collected and distributed nationwide to Military families and Veterans facing financial hardships and homelessness due to catastrophe, unemployment, PTSD, illness or injury. 

Care Packages for Care Givers: In recognition of their sacrifice and devotion, Operation Gratitude sends special greetings and appreciation to spouses, parents and siblings who are caring for their wounded heroes.

How are our volunteers and donors involved? Whether they live near enough to our headquarters to join us in person or if they live on the opposite side of the country, our supporters know from personal experience that Doing Good is Good for You and that serving others as a way of life is beneficial for both the young and old!

Our supporters help us in a wide variety of ways:

1. They work with us at our headquarters in Chatsworth, CA: Volunteer Information & Schedule

2. They make and donate (click on each link for more information):
Scarves for Troops
Paracord “Survival” Bracelets
Cool-Ties

3. They collect and recycle:
Cell Phones
Worn-out U.S. Flags — for our “Stars of Gratitude” program

4. They organize collection drives of our “Wish List” items…They write letters…They donate their used vehicles…They donate financially…and they help spread the word about what we do by sharing information about our work via Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Blogs!

We could not do all that we do without the generosity and hard work of so many people across the United States.

As always, THANK YOU for your generous support!  But…

Our work is never done! Tens of thousands of American troops are always deployed overseas, far from home and loved ones.  More than 23 million Veterans in this country have never heard the words: “Thank you for your service.” And many Veterans are homeless, ill or otherwise in difficult circumstances.

Each of them still deserves our respect and appreciation.  Each of them deserves to receive one of our “Thank You Care Packages.”

At the same time, millions of Americans want to say “Thank You” in an active and meaningful way.

Operation Gratitude continues its dual mission both to express gratitude to our Military and First Responder communities, and to provide every American that opportunity to say “Thank You.”

Do you have questions? Please visit our website and/or contact us via email: Info@OperationGratitude.com. We will get back to you ASAP!

Join us today!