Foundation Sends Care Packages Overseas in Honor of Fallen Soldier

By Sharon Foster
American Forces Press Service

Dec. 17, 2008 - While deployed to Iraq, Jacob Fletcher wrote to his mother, Dorine Kenney, asking her to send one of his buddies a care package, as his friend hadn't received anything from home since he arrived overseas. The next week, Kenney sent the package out and, soon after, started sending care packages to a number of her son's comrades. Although her son was killed by a roadside bomb in Iraq on Nov. 13, 2003, she continues to honor her son's request.

Today, with the help of numerous volunteers, Kenney sends comfort and support to troops overseas in his memory.

"Since our nonprofit started in January of 2004, we have stuck to our mission 100 percent," Kenney said. "The troops need our support, to know that America is thinking of them and behind them. Our active military and veterans are the backbone of our country."

Jacob's Light Foundation, a New York-based troop-support group, sends care packages and letters to soldiers serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. Once a month, a group of volunteers gather at the Brentwood American Legion Hall in Bay Shore, N.Y., to pack the care packages.

This Christmas, Army Spc. Tom Cleere, stationed in Kuwait, received one of Kenney's care packages. "It was so thoughtful of all of you to remember our soldiers this holiday season," he wrote to Kenney. "It is nice to know that wonderful folks like you are so kind and thoughtful and embody the spirit of the holiday."

Kenney's group packs and sends at least 250 boxes out each month. A Jacob's Light newsletter and a letter from Kenney, as well as a variety of food and hygiene items are included in each care package.

"Many of our troops are in forward operating bases and don't have access to the amenities as those in bigger camps," Kenney said. "They truly need the supplies, and it is our honor to do the work we do. There are many who don't have support from home or their families don't have the money to send supplies. We reach out to all our troops."