October 15, 2026 — The holidays are a time for giving, and the American Red Cross of North and Central Florida is inviting communities to help bring comfort, joy and a little piece of home to military members serving overseas and veterans in local hospitals and nursing homes.

Through Operation Holiday Cheer, sponsored by Space Coast Credit Union, the Red Cross is collecting care package items, holiday cards and handwritten notes of encouragement through November 18 to remind military members and veterans that their service and sacrifice are remembered and appreciated.

“The holidays can be especially difficult for military members who are far from home and veterans who may be spending the season away from family and friends,” said Christian Smith, Regional Executive for the American Red Cross of North and Central Florida. “Something as simple as a handwritten card or a small care package can bring a smile and remind them that their community is thinking of them. Operation Holiday Cheer is a wonderful way for all of us to say thank you.”

Help Fill a Holiday Care Package

Community members, businesses, schools, and organizations are encouraged to donate new, unopened items to help fill holiday care packages.

Requested items include:

• Snacks and Treats: Individually packaged snacks, candy, granola bars, drink mixes, gum and mints.
• Comfort Items: Lip balm, hand lotion, travel-size toiletries, hand warmers and new socks.
• Activities: Playing cards, puzzle books, pens and small games.

Holiday Cheer:

Handwritten cards, holiday greetings and notes of encouragement.

Send a Little Holiday CheerA simple handwritten message can make a meaningful difference. Individuals, families, schools, businesses and community organizations are invited to create holiday cards expressing thanks, encouragement and appreciation for military members, veterans and military families.

Cards should include a generic greeting, such as “Dear Service Member, Veteran or Military Family Member,” along with a heartfelt message. Please do not include glitter, money, photographs, gifts, or other personal enclosures. Envelopes are not needed.

Drop Off Donations or Shop Online

Donations of new, unopened items and holiday cards will be accepted weekdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. through November 18 at the following American Red Cross locations:

• Northeast Florida Chapter - 751 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204
• Central Florida Coast Chapter - 5 N Bumby Avenue, Orlando, FL 32803
• Tampa Bay Chapter - 3310 W. Main Street, Tampa, FL 33607

Those unable to visit a collection site can still participate by purchasing requested items from their favorite online retailer and having them shipped directly to one of the collection locations.

Every donation, whether a care package item or a handwritten card, is a reminder to military members and veterans that their service matters and their sacrifices are appreciated.

Give a little. Share some cheer. Show your appreciation.