During the holiday season, it is important to be thankful for what we have. Sometimes, in our busy lives, we forget the sacrifices many make for us to be able to do the things we do. Let’s not forget that the reason why we have the freedom to celebrate holidays and be around our loved ones is because of our military. After all, military members make the sacrifice of fighting for our nation and, oftentimes, have to be away from home during the holidays.
So, while military members are on active duty and away from home, there are some ways you can help make the holidays special to them and give back.
Donate Food
One way you can help military members during Thanksgiving is by donating nonperishable food items. While they may not be able to eat at the dinner table with their loved ones, they should still have a great meal. Numerous organizations help military members and families with Thanksgiving. These programs help give Thanksgiving care packages or food to those in need. Unfortunately, military families can struggle to provide during the holidays.
Here are a few organizations that provide military resources during Thanksgiving: Armed Services YMCA, Military Friends Foundation, and Operation Homefront.
Write Letters
Reading a personally written letter is a great feeling. This is a simple way to say “Thank You” to all who have and are serving our great nation. Taking the time to write a meaningful handwritten letter is an easy way to give back. You never know, sharing your heartfelt thoughts and gratitude can be what motivates military members to keep moving forward in their duties. The kind words written can put a smile on a military member’s face when they need it most during the holidays.
Operation Gratitude is an organization that helps send handwritten letters to deployed troops, veterans, wounded heroes, and first responders.
Offer a Seat at your Thanksgiving Table
Military members often cannot return home for the holidays, leaving many alone. If you are near a local military base or know an active military member who cannot return home, offer them a seat at your Thanksgiving dinner table. This kind gesture can go a long way. Not only will you give them company during the holiday, but you will also give them a nice meal and get to know them. Maybe a new friendship will blossom over dinner.
Here’s to having a beautiful Thanksgiving with our heroes!
