The Santa Clarita chapter of the Blue Star Mothers of America not only keep the home fires burning for our soldiers serving in Iraq, they make certain the soldiers feel the love and generosity of the community, as well. The Magazine of Santa Clarita publisher, Linda Hafizi recently caught up with the Chapter President, Sandy Baer and Tina Perez, Vice President, at the local post office.
With part of the shipment of 500 gift and care packages in tote, the Mothers were doing their part to give continuing support to the people who serve our country.
Baer’s 24-year-old son, Larry who has recently returned home to the Santa Clarita Valley after a nine-month tour of duty in Iraq and a one-year commitment in Afghanistan loved whenever his squadron would receive gifts from the Blue Star Mothers of America.
“He thought it was great. They’d take only what they would need from the package of goodies and leave the rest on a table for the other soldiers to choose from,” said Baer, a Canyon Country resident.
She admits the work required to coordinate the gift-giving efforts is intense but, well worth it when you know you’re putting a smile on a soldier’s face, especially those who might not be receiving any other packages from home.
“Our organization is a good support network. We need it because it is very hard when your son or daughter first leaves,” said Baer.
Thank you for all of the generous donations contributed during the holiday season. And, special thanks to the Moms who organized the gifts. Their love and moral support have been appreciated by thousands of soldiers since the national organization was formed more than 40 years ago.
In January, the local chapter will begin its “Hearts for Heros” program during which time the area elementary students create Valentines to send to the soldiers. “Operation Dignity” will also begin collecting pajamas for those confined to infirmaries as well as the veterans at the Los Angeles VA hospital.
For further information see www.scvbluestarmothers.org or call 661-251-4395.