It’s been a busy couple of weeks at Dr. Steven Thompson’s dental practice in the Village of Holley. People have been stopping in to drop off candy left over from Halloween – all of which will be sent to Operation Gratitude as part of care packages to servicemen and women overseas.
Each package is addressed personally to a soldier, Dr. Thompson says.
The “Treasure Chest” in Dr. Thompson’s waiting room is full of treats and now he and his staff will work to separate chocolate from other candy in preparation for shipping.
“A lot of people called,” Dr. Thompson says. “Local businesses have given cash to help with shipping … people sent in checks … many people we don’t even know have been stopping in to donate.”
Northwood Elementary School in Hilton donated more than 25 pounds of candy.Some students wrote notes to soldiers. People have also brought Beanie Babies and other stuffed animals, Dr. Thompson’s office staff noted.
This year, the Buy Back was extended to the entire week after Halloween to give people additional time to bring in donations.
The packages, which will reach servicemen and women in time for Christmas, “Make a huge difference,” for those serving overseas, Dr. Thompson says, and adds he is grateful for all the community support.
