Flexible Ways to Support Deployed Service Members Through One-Time Care Packages
June 13, 2026
Supporting deployed Service Members has always been at the heart of Soldiers’ Angels. Volunteers send care packages, handwritten letters, and ongoing encouragement to remind Service Members serving far from home that they are appreciated, remembered, and never alone.
For years, many of our volunteers have supported troops through our Adopt-A-Service Member program, committing to send monthly care packages throughout a deployment. These long-term connections are incredibly meaningful — both for the volunteer and the Service Member receiving support.
For deployed Service Members, receiving a care package is about more than the items inside the box. It is a reminder that someone back home is thinking about them during long days, difficult conditions, and time spent away from family and loved ones.
Even a simple note of encouragement or a few favorite snacks can provide comfort, boost morale, and help strengthen the connection between communities at home and those serving around the world.
Rising Costs Are Changing How People Give
But we also understand that times have changed.
With rising costs impacting households across the country, purchasing supplies and covering shipping expenses for ongoing military care packages may not be possible for everyone right now. Many people still want to support deployed troops — they just need a more flexible option that fits their budget and schedule.
Shipping costs alone can quickly add up when sending care packages overseas. Depending on the size and destination, volunteers may spend anywhere from $20 to $50* or more to ship a single package to a deployed Service Member. Combined with the cost of snacks, hygiene items, and other supplies, monthly participation can become difficult for some households to sustain.
That’s why Soldiers’ Angels is expanding volunteer opportunities and introducing new one-time care package support options.
(Note: Shipping a care package in a USPS Flat Rate box is often one of the most cost-effective ways to send support to deployed Service Members. Shipping costs to APO/FPO/DPO addresses currently range from approximately $13.65 for a small Flat Rate box to $32.55 for a large Flat Rate box, often making USPS more affordable than other shipping services.)
One-Time Care Package Support Makes a Difference
These one-time opportunities allow volunteers to send encouragement when they are able, without the commitment of a full deployment adoption. Whether it’s a single care package, a donation to help with shipping costs, or a heartfelt letter, every act of kindness helps bridge the gap for deployed Service Members waiting to hear from home.
And the need is real.
Currently, only 43% of registered deployed Service Members receive a care package each month. Our goal is simple: ensure every registered Service Member receives support every month.
By creating more flexible ways to give back, we hope to make supporting deployed troops more accessible for everyone — because even small acts of support can make a lasting impact.
Whether you choose to adopt a Service Member, send a one-time care package, write letters, or make a donation, you are helping ensure no soldier goes unloved.
Start supporting deployed Service Members today! Visit SoldiersAngels.org/Volunteer to learn more about one-time and ongoing volunteer opportunities.
About the Author
Michelle Julazadeh Chavarin has been with Soldiers’ Angels since 2013, when she was hired as the sole member of the Marketing and Communications team. Today, she leads a dynamic group of employees, Skillbridge interns, Veteran interns, and contractors who work together to amplify the mission and impact of the organization.
