USO base in Afghanistan thanks Marmion, Batavia Cares for support

The Pat Tillman USO at Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan sent a note of appreciation to the Cadets of Marmion Academy and Batavia Cares for their continued support, especially for the microwave popcorn.

The note included, "A big shout out to our great friends for their wonderful donations, Marmion Academy and Batavia Cares!!! Our troops sure love their popcorn, thank you so much!!#usomoments!!!"

The support program sends comfort packages to not only the USO, but also to individuals deployed around the world. The USO at Bagram also sent a wish list.

"Popcorn will be a life saver, breakfast cereal is good, pop tarts better...snack stuff is always a favorite. Nuts, jerky, etc. Tuna is a staple, so you can't go wrong there. You are awesome! Troops greatly appreciate your wonderful donations."

Batavia Cares also has a Cookie of the Month Club, inviting citizens to bake cookies that are then sent to the troops. Items can be dropped off at the Batavia Ace Hardware Store, corner of Wilson Street and Randall Road.

Include your name and address so that we can thank you for your donations. Funds also are needed for postage. Donations can be mailed to Batavia Cares, a not-for-profit Illinois Corporation, 324 Church St., Batavia, IL 60510.

Friends and relatives of deployed servicemen and women can insure they receive a package from Batavia Cares by sending their name and address to www.bataviacares.org or to 324 Church St., Batavia, IL 60510. A photo of the individual will be placed in the window at 2 E. Wilson St., in Batavia, if desired.

For more information contact Batavia Cares at info@bataviacares.org or (630) 687-1943.