Whiting School Packs Supplies for Troops Overseas

Over 250 care packages for U.S. troops overseas were packed by volunteers at Whiting Elementary School last weekend during an Operation Shoebox New Jersey packing event.

According to Christine Darcy, Whiting School teacher and event organizer, care packages contained food, toiletries, candy, letters and pictures from students.

"It was and is a great opportunity for community members of all ages and backgrounds to come together and work hand-in-hand to support all the brave men and women who are fighting for our freedom," she said.

Volunteers included students, parents, teachers and residents from surrounding senior communities. All supplies were donated by the community in the days before the April 30 event.

The event was capped with the dedication of a cherry tree, donated by Mayor Michael Fressola's office, to troops.

Darcy said that she hopes to plan another event next year, as it was "a great learning opportunity for the students and a great way for our community to come together."

According to Operation Shoebox, the all-volunteer organization was founded in 2005 and has shipped over 44,000 care packages overseas.