Halloween is one of the best times of the year. From spooky movies to tasty treats, Halloween is fun for just about everyone. Military families in the U.S. celebrate Halloween a lot like civilians, and for those serving overseas, we can bring Halloween to them.
Halloween for Deployed Troops
Thankfully, there are many ways to ensure that our deployed troops can enjoy Halloween abroad.
THE USO WISHBOOK
The USO Wishbook is a great way to give troops some treats they will love for Halloween or anytime of year. It’s a catalog where you can buy gifts that remind troops of home. We’re not talking Halloween candy exactly, though you can buy comfort food packages and holiday dinners. Other gifts connect troops to the best treats of all—their families. Phone calls, video conferencing, and even virtual bedtime stories are available to purchase. For more details, check out usowishbook.uso.org.
SOLDIERS’ ANGELS TREATS FOR THE TROOPS
But if Halloween candy is your thing, there are some fun ways to satisfy the sweet-tooth of anyone serving overseas. Soldiers’ Angels asks for everyone to donate any leftover Halloween candy to their Treats for Troops program. Soldier’s Angels also sends our troops Halloween-inspired care packages. They include decorations and costumes, which are often used in Skype sessions with families back home. And if dressing up isn’t their thing, our troops are known for creating their own contests with rewards such as a giant candy bar for the most push-ups!
OPERATION GRATITUDE
Operation Gratitude is another great nonprofit organization that brings Halloween overseas. Operation Gratitude sends care packages to:
- First responders
- Veterans
- Troops overseas
- Wounded soldiers
- Military caregivers
- Children of deployed military members
Their biggest drive of the year is for Halloween. They encourage everyone with leftover candy to send it to their loved ones in the military or their families. Your donations will bring a smile to troops who could use a pick-me-up during the holidays.
OPERATION STARS AND STRIPES
Operation Stars and Stripes encourages parents and their kids to tell the houses you visit on Halloween that you are collecting candy to donate to the troops. The candy received is then used to fill stockings for what is called Operation Holiday Stockings Campaign.
Halloween Candy Buyback is designed for kids who want to give their candy to the troops. They can bring the candy to a local dentist and will receive prizes, including toothbrushes, coupons, and toys. The dentist will then send the candy to Operation Gratitude.
Looking for a dentist who participates near you? You can check on the Halloween Candy Buyback website.
Tip: Be sure to check with each program before sending your care packages.
For example, Treats for Troops has a weight limit of 10lbs of candy so be sure to weigh it before you send it off. Many gyms, churches, schools and local businesses also participate in sending treats to the troops. Check with your neighborhood to see where a donation spot is near you!
WHAT A MILITARY HALLOWEEN PROVIDES OUR TROOPS
Not only do our troops love candy and Halloween—supporting our troops through each and every step is essential to their well-being. Being away from home and/or loved ones can be difficult. When we give back, our troops feel more connected and less alone. Halloween celebrations and donations are a great way to bring a smile and a feeling of normalcy to those who put their lives on the line.
