EDITORS/NEWS DIRECTORS: PLEASE NOTE THIS RELEASE WAS ORIGINALLY SENT OUT JUST AFTER THE TORNADO OUTBREAK OF 1 MARCH. WE ASKED THEN THAT IT BE HELD IN AN ATTEMPT TO BOLSTER RELIEF EFFORTS. THIS RELEASE IS NOW UNEMBARGOED. THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP.

TROY—Troy University’s support program for members of the U.S. military is seeking public donations from across southeast Alabama to fill care packages for Trojans serving in combat theaters.

Called “Troy for Troops,” the program is designed to identify and thank current students, alumni, faculty or staff members—or members of their immediate families— who are on active military duty. A special link to the University’s website (www.troy.edu/) includes a message to the troops from Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr., accompanied by a form that Trojans in military service can complete to update their contact information. Trojans serving in combat zones as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom will be sent a special gift from the University.

The program, led by Janice Hawkins, the University’s first lady, began in October and more than 300 Trojans in the armed services, including 48 serving in combat zones, have responded to date. Student organizations on campus have volunteered to assemble and mail the packages, but the University is asking the public to join the effort by donating small gifts for the packages, according to Barbara Patterson, director of student involvement.

“We are asking for only new items or used items in excellent shape,” Patterson said. “We will not take used clothing of any kind.”

Some of the items most requested by service personnel are:

• Snacks and non-perishable food items;
• Undershirts (white, short sleeves);
• Socks (bootcut in black, green or white);
• AT&T Global Pre-Paid Military Calling Cards;
• Movie DVDs and music CDs (new or used, original only);
• Paperback books/puzzle books; and
• Sunglasses.

To aid in this effort, drop sites are being set up at all four of Troy University’s Alabama campuses. The sites are:

• At the Troy Campus, the Office of Alumni Affairs, 100 Highland Avenue;
• At the Dothan Campus, 103 Malone Hall, in care of Amy Farver;
• At the Montgomery Campus 201 Whitley Hall,
• At the Phenix City Campus, the lobby of Adams Hall.

Any questions about making donations to the program may be directed to Ms. Patterson at 334-670-3204.

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