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How to Adopt a Service Member on a Budget 

You don’t need a big wallet to make a big impact. 

When Service Members deploy overseas, they leave behind more than just their families and homes. They also leave behind the comforts of daily life, access to their favorite snacks, and at times, the feeling that anyone back home remembers they’re out there. That’s where Soldiers’ Angels steps in—and where you can make a difference, even if money is tight.

Through the Adopt-A-Service-Member program, Soldiers’ Angels connects deployed troops with volunteers who are committed to sending monthly letters and care packages. It’s a powerful way to let our heroes know they’re not forgotten. And the best part? You can adopt a deployed Service Member on a budget, showing that even small efforts from home can mean the world to someone serving far away.

But what if you’re eager to help and your budget is tight? Well, the good news is: You can still make a difference. Here’s how:

Supporting Our Troops Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank

1. Start with Heart, Not Dollars

Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can send isn’t in a box—it’s in your words. A heartfelt letter reminding a deployed hero that they’re seen, valued, and remembered can lift spirits in ways you may never fully know. Even the smallest gesture, offered consistently, can bring comfort that lasts far beyond the moment. Read a heartfelt letter from a Chaplain to our Angel Volunteers and see the powerful impact your support has downrange.

Tip: Include kid drawings, short poems, favorite quotes, jokes, or even a funny story from your week. Personal touches like these bring warmth money simply can’t buy.

2. Plan Budget-Friendly Care Packages

Next, get creative with what you send. You don’t need to ship a big box every month. A small shoebox with just a few thoughtful items—like instant coffee, gum, travel-size toiletries, or socks—can brighten someone’s day.

Discount stores, clearance sections, and coupon apps can help you find affordable, high-demand items that fit easily into your care package.

You can also go to visit some of our past blogs to learn more valuable tips to get you started: “How It Works To Adopt A Service Member“, “What to Include in a Care Package“, or “How To Assemble A Care Package“.

3. Want to Keep It Simple? Try Monthly Themes

If you’re looking for an easy, organized way to adopt a deployed Service Member on a budget, monthly care package themes are a fun and affordable option. Themes help take the guesswork out of what to send while keeping your support consistent and creative. For example, February could be all about sweet treats and messages of encouragement, while July might focus on patriotic goodies or summer essentials. By sticking to a theme each month, you not only streamline your shopping and packing but also make each care package feel intentional and thoughtful—something your deployed Service Member will truly appreciate.

  • January – “New Year, New Gear”
    • Send wellness items: socks, hand warmers, protein bars, planner, chapstick 
    • Add a motivational note: “Here’s to a strong start!” 
  • February – “Hearts from Home” 
    • Valentine’s candy, heart-shaped treats, red/pink decorations
    • Include letters of appreciation or handmade valentines  
    • Add a note: “You’re not forgotten. You’re loved.” 
  • March – “Luck & Gratitude” 
    • Green/gold items, shamrocks, snacks with gold wrappers 
    • Mini “pot of gold” candy bags 
    • Note: “Lucky to have heroes like you.” 
  • April – “Spring into Support” 
    • Spring-themed snacks, travel-size sunscreen, allergy relief 
    • Bright colors, flower decorations, maybe a stress ball 
    • Note: “Wishing you brighter days ahead.” 
  • May – “Stars, Stripes & Strength” 
    • Patriotic gear for Military Appreciation Month: red/white/blue snacks, decorations 
    • Mini flags or themed socks 
    • Note: “Honoring your service this Military Appreciation Month.” 
  • June – “Beat the Heat” 
    • Hydration powders, cooling wipes or towels, gum, summer snacks 
    • Sunglasses or lip balm with SPF (budget versions work!) 
    • Note: “Stay strong, stay cool.” 
  • July – “Freedom & Fun”
    • Independence Day theme: Glow sticks, red/white/blue snacks 
    • Patriotic decorations, American flag bandana 
    • Note: “Thank you for protecting our freedom.” 
  • August – “Back-to-Basics” 
    • School supply theme: pens, notebooks, snacks in lunch bags 
    • Childhood-favorite treats (Fruit Roll-Ups, Goldfish) 
    • Note: “Even heroes need the essentials.” 
  • September – “Salute to Service” 
    • Labor Day & Patriot Day tie-in 
    • Include handwritten thank-you notes, mini U.S. flags, coffee, trail mix 
    • Note: “Your hard work does not go unnoticed.” 
  • October – “BOO-Grateful” 
    • Halloween treats, spooky/fun decorations, glow sticks 
    • Send a Halloween card or costume accessory for fun 
    • Note: “No tricks—just thanks!” 
  • November – “Harvest of Thanks” 
    • Pumpkin spice snacks, cozy items, instant cider or cocoa 
    • Include a letter of gratitude or “thankful for you” list 
    • Note: “You’re at the top of our gratitude list.” 
  • December – “Holiday Cheer from Home” 
    • Mini stockings, candy canes, holiday cards 
    • Add non-denominational cheer: snowflakes, hot chocolate, cozy socks (NO Glitter)
    • Note: “You’re in our hearts this holiday season.” 

4. Use Free Military Flat-Rate Boxes

To make shipping more affordable, the U.S. Postal Service offers free Priority Mail APO/FPO flat-rate boxes for military mail. You can send up to 70 pounds for one flat rate—and best of all, these boxes often reach deployed Service Members faster than standard shipping options.

Visit your local post office or USPS.com to grab a stack of these free boxes—it’s one less cost for you and a great way to maximize your budget.

5. Ask for Samples or Extras

To stretch your care package budget even further, consider reaching out to local artisans, creative friends or family members, or even neighbors. Ask if they’d be willing to donate small items or product samples—many are more than happy to contribute once they learn their donation will directly support deployed Service Members through military care packages.

6. Try Letter Writing Opportunities

If sending packages isn’t possible right now, consider starting with Letter Writing opportunities through Soldiers’ Angels. Your only commitment is to send kind, uplifting letters—no box required. It’s a low-cost way for you to still show appreciation and stay involved in a powerful mission.

Every Effort Counts 

Supporting a deployed Service Member isn’t about how much you can spend—it’s about showing someone thousands of miles away that they haven’t been forgotten. With the Adopt-A-Service-Member program, everyday Americans can connect with deployed heroes in real, tangible ways. In fact, it’s entirely possible to adopt a deployed Service Member on a budget and still make a lasting impact through thoughtful letters, small care packages, and consistent encouragement.

So if your heart says “yes,” don’t let your wallet say “no.” You can do this—and Soldiers’ Angels is here to help. 

Ready to adopt a Service Member today—even on a budget? 

Visit SoldiersAngels.org/Volunteer to become an Angel volunteer and get started. Not ready to commit? No worries! Join our newsletter list so you can stay up-to-date with all of the different ways you can support the Military-connected community.

About the Author

Mike Isaac-Jimenez is a 25-year U.S. Air Force Veteran transitioning into retirement in San Antonio, TX, and currently serving as a SkillBridge intern with Soldiers’ Angels. He holds a B.S. in Technical Management (Project Management) from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, along with A.A.S. degrees in Mechanical & Electrical Technology and Mechanical Engineering.