Doctors Hospital is hosting a troop packing event in its conference room Friday at 3 p.m. in an effort to reach as many military men and women as possible over the holidays.
Citizens may also sign up a loved one to receive a box by bringing their APO/FPO shipping information to the hospital on Friday.
Volunteers are needed to pack the some 300 boxes with everything from games to high protein snacks and small battery operated fans and hand warmers along with batteries to make them operate.
Donations of food and supplies can be dropped off at the front counter of the hospital. Candy bars, protein bars and a long list of personal items may also be donated to help fill the need, according to hospital spokesman Scott Knight.  Second Harvest Food Bank has already done its part in supplying packs of almonds and protein bars.
The packing effort is all part of the ongoing Cpl. Charles O. Palmer II Memorial Troop Support Program in honor the late Charles Palmer. The items that are being sent include gum, paper, pens, and pocket sized tablets, dental hygiene items including tooth brushes, toothpaste and floss.  Other hygiene items still needed include soap, shampoo, lotions, hand sanitizer, and feminine pads and tampons.
Jerky, energy bars, nuts and other high protein snacks will hopefully be included in the incoming donations from the public.  Individual servings of packaged fruits, meats, pastas, puddings and cereals of a non-perishable type are also encouraged.
Personal grooming items such as nail clippers, lip balm and unscented wipes, combs, brushes and disposable razors and wash clothes are also needed. Check donations may be made payable to the American Legion Post 249 with MTSP in the memo line.  Cash is accepted on the day of the packing Friday.  Each box costs some $16 to ship to the troops adding up to some $4,800.