Halloween is going to look a little different this year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t support a good cause.
Operation Gratitude sends care packages to U.S. troops stationed in overseas and first responders stateside. The organization’s mission is simple: to put a smile on soldiers’ faces. Despite this year’s challenges, Operation Gratitude’s Halloween Candy Give Back Program is still happening, and you can be a part of the effort to give a little love to the military, veterans, first responders and frontline responders working hard to keep us safe!
This year, donate Halloween candy to Operation Gratitude – here’s how:
Donate virtually
It seems everything has moved online this year, and Operation Gratutude’s candy donation program is no exception. Visit their virtual donation page, where each $15 donation sponsors the cost of shipping for 1 (one) Halloween Candy Care Package.
Mail in donations
Because of COVID-19, candy drop off locations are unable to accecept in-person donations this year. But you have options. You can pay to ship your candy to Operation Gratitude:
OG Candy Processing Center
8967 Oso Ave Building D
Chatsworth, CA 91311
As shipping may add up, they suggest asking each donor to also include $1 with their candy to help offset costs. And remember that the cost of shipping your donation is tax-deductible.
Enlist help
Operation Gratitude also suggests contacting a local Military Base, Veteran Organization or First Responder Department in your area and ask if they are interested and able to take candy. Please note that because of Covid, many departments may be unable to accept donations, so it’s important we don’t just leave it outside their office or station and that you contact them in advance for permission and directions on how to donate your candy.
Alternatively, if you have a local dentist or orthodontist office you are a patient of and you believe they would enjoy participating in collecting candy, you can always send them the link to sign up!
Read more about Operation Gratitude here.