Simple, Cost-Effective Ways to Support Our Troops

Various charities and schools are organizing efforts to send soldiers letters from our children. “Thank you for fighting for our country. I love the color camo. I am nine. Why did you want to go to the military? Thank you for dieing [sic] for our country. I love American flags. Do you ever stop working?” one letter, originally published in Northwest Florida Daily News, reads. “I love that every hour of every day you fight for our lives. I respect my veterans. How long do you have to sleep? You are very heroic and brave.”

There are plenty of ways to help support our troops and make life a little easier for military spouses and children. Adorable letters from young kids are just the tip of the iceberg. Here are some other ways to pitch in:

A Different Kind of Couponing

Sometimes, half of the battle is asking for help. A lot of people take pride in being self-sufficient and many are unwilling to openly ask for a hand, even if they desperately need it. Coupons can be a creative way to offer military spouses help, without them ever having to ask. If you are friends with a military husband or wife in your area, give coupons offering assistance with specific services and tasks. Draw up coupons good for one night of babysitting, an hour shoveling snow, or help with everyday housework.

Get Your Friends Involved

Let’s face it. There may be only so much you can do on your own. Talk to friends, family, and neighbors about organizing a special event commemorating soldiers and their families. Organize a volunteer potluck, luncheon, or breakfast benefiting local military families. The combined efforts of the local community should prevent one or two individuals from shouldering the brunt of the costs or responsibilities.

Donate Lightly Used Clothing

Clothing donations are a relatively simple way to give back to our troops. Support for military families does not necessarily have to be a time commitment. There are plenty of organizations that pick up donations, allowing Americans to contribute without leaving the comforts of their homes.

Support our troops. Whether you ask your young child to write a letter, offer to babysit, or collect clothing donations, there are a wealth of ways to help soldiers and their families. Check out this site for more: www.purpleheartpickup.org