In November 2005, a couple of work colleagues in a law firm got together to send a care package to one soldier.  They asked a few others in their office if they would like to participate and so began the effort to continue and seek out names and addresses of soldiers serving and send them all a care package.  

 This act of gratitude is what brought Paula Cornell and Janie Josephson together to form a non profit organization and organize a major all volunteer grassroots effort to support the troops.  FOR THE TROOPS was established, now offering a tax benefit for those wanting to show their support for the troops.  The two women have been coordinating collection drives with schools, churches, service organizations, local businesses, and local scouting programs.  Donated funds are used to pay the cost of postage on the boxes, which runs approximately $10.50 per package.  As the donations flow in, packing days are coordinated where volunteers gather and fill the care packages with the donated items, including letters of thanks and encouragement from kids and adults.  In turn, letters and emails of thanks from the troops have been received. 

 This effort began in Cornell's garage in Simi Valley, with friends and neighbors volunteering their help.  When donated space was offered to them, the move was made.  For The Troops is now headquartered in Sycamore Village to host donation drop-offs, and packing and shipping needs.  The success of this program has warranted a milestone event.

For more information go to http://www.ForTheTroops.org.    For The Troops Headquarters is located at, 2872 Cochran Street, Simi Valley, CA  93065.   Please call for questions at (805) 306-0830 or email them at [email protected]     All donations are tax deductible.   Federal Tax ID #: 20-8099782 section 501(c)(3).