Orland Park, IL – A community-wide holiday donation drive is now underway as the Orland Park Veterans Advisory Board begins collecting packaged cookies and treats to send to U.S. service members deployed overseas. Residents can participate through Nov. 19 by dropping off store-bought or bakery-packaged cookies, candy, hot chocolate packets, small holiday decorations, or handwritten holiday cards.
According to the Village of Orland Park, collection bins are now available at four municipal facilities: Village Hall (14700 S. Ravinia Ave.), the Sportsplex (11351 W. 159th St.), Orland Park Health & Fitness (14921 S. Ravinia Ave.), and the Franklin Loebe Center (14650 S. Ravinia Ave.). All items will be boxed and shipped to military personnel in time for the holiday season.
Officials said the annual “Cookies for the Troops” initiative helps boost morale for service members spending the holidays away from home. Residents are encouraged to include signed holiday cards or letters, which organizers say are among the most appreciated items each year.
Additional short-term drop-off events are also scheduled. Apple Chevrolet at 8585 W. 159th Street will host a collection window on Friday, November 7, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. The Orland Park Public Library at 14921 S. Ravinia Ave. will accept donations on Saturday, November 15, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Village officials noted that all donated items must be shelf-stable and securely packaged for shipping. No homemade goods are accepted due to military mailing regulations.
Residents seeking more details can contact the Veterans Advisory Board through the village at 708-403-6115 or veterans@orlandpark.org.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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