By Debbie Gregory.

For troops who are separated from their loved ones over the holidays, a bit of joy can be found in a care package.

The troops who are deployed to the U.S.-Mexico border will remain there at least through the end of January. Additionally thousands of service members are currently deployed to Afghanistan, Syria, and around the world.

While many of the deadlines for mailing to military members have passed, here are some that you have time to make:

  • For mail addressed to/from AE ZIPs 090-098 (except 093), AE ZIP 340, and AP ZIPs 962 – 966, if you use Priority Express Mail Military Service you have until December 18th.
  • Domestic Mail (any U.S. address that is not an APO/FPO) has a Priority Express Mail Military Service cutoff date of December 22nd, with First-Class due by December 20th.

But even if you have missed the holiday deadlines, you can support deployed troops year round by sending care packages.

Non-perishable food and snacks such as peanut butter, jerky, trail mix, nuts, and dried fruit are always welcome and travel well. Additionally, you can send powdered drink mixes that can be mixed with water, condiments that can be added to MREs, and individually packed protein snacks.

Another treat is sending toiletries such as shaving products, lip balm, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, sunscreen, deodorant, mouth wash and hand sanitizer.

Don’t underestimate the power of the hand-written note. From a simple “thank you” to a drawing from your child, cards and letters are much appreciated.

If you do not know a specific person to send to, you can contact the public affairs office for your local base. If you don’t live near a military installation, there are a number of organizations that can help you, including Operation Support Our Troops, Soldiers’ Angels, 4 The Troops and the USO, just to name a few.