Ruskin HCSO Helps Operation Shoebox

By Mitch Traphagen

RUSKIN - The yellow ribbons are beginning to appear in numbers and, regardless of one's feelings about the war in Iraq, there is almost a universal mantra of 'Support the Troops'. It is from that idea that Operation Shoebox was born.

As thousands of Americans wanted to do something, anything to help out the troops fighting in the desert, the Department of Defense soon became overwhelmed with donations, letters and packages that they simply did not have the ability to process. Operation Shoebox is a program designed to provide members of the military with little things to make their lives more comfortable in a way that the DoD is able to handle.

Founded in Tampa, the program hopes to give the public the ability to help out as well as provide comfort to the troops.

Donna Budd at the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office Ruskin Community Service Station heard about the program and wanted to do her part. She gained approval from the HCSO to allow the Ruskin station to serve as a drop off point for people wanting to donate to Operation Shoebox. According to Budd, the HCSO administration thought it was a great idea. While there are many drop off locations in the Tampa Bay area, the Ruskin station is the only one in south county. Budd is hoping this will make it easier for south county residents wanting to help out.

The program is simple, find a shoebox and fill it with things that someone serving our country could use. Among the suggested items are Wet Wipes, Advil, batteries, chapstick and hard candy. Some of the more utilitarian, but likely welcomed suggestions include soap, deodorant, sand flea repellent and shaving cream.

An important part of the program is that people wanting to donate are also strongly encouraged to provide postage, or a check for the amount of estimated postage for their shoebox.

Letters are welcomed but thought should be put into sending magazines or books. The content of which may be examined by customs officers in the Middle East and may be confiscated if they are found to violate Islamic beliefs. Letters will also be scrutinized.

All packages, including letters, should be left unopened for inspection. Organizers will also attempt to place items in ziplock bags and containers, which are also useful items for donations.

The organizers of Operation Shoebox will not provide information about military personnel nor will they provide information about specific troops and units. They will, however, attempt to ensure a package is sent to a specific person or unit upon request. Citing protection of the servicemen and women, the organization will not accept letters soliciting pen pals.

Numerous area groups and individuals are already taking part in the program. Each class at Ruskin Elementary will fill a shoebox and write a letter to the troops. The Ruskin Elementary shoeboxes will be taken to the area radio station MIX 100.7.

A long list of suggested items is available on the organization's web site at www.operationshoebox.us. In lieu of items, donation checks may also be made out to Operation Shoebox. Cash donations can not be accepted at the HCSO Ruskin station.