With springtime weather and summer fun on the way, Connecticut residents look forward to gardening, cook-outs, swimming and fun.  But soldiers deployed overseas do not have the opportunity to enjoy the same activities.

The Granges of East Central Pomona have joined forces with VFW Post 7659 and other local groups to prepare care packages full of the comforts of home for U.S. troops deployed overseas on Sunday, May 1, 2011.  They are asking for the community to help with their efforts.

This event will be held at Good Will Grange Hall, 43 Naubuc Avenue, Glastonbury, CT.  Set up for the event will begin at noon with the collection and packing running to be held from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM.  Items for donation are asked to be in place before 1:00 PM.

With the help of many volunteers and contributors, VFW Post 7659 and the Ladies' Auxiliary, along with East Central Pomona Granges: Glastonbury Grange No. 26, Manchester Grange No. 31, Coventry Grange No. 75 and Hillstown Grange (East Hartford) No. 87, the local Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, and other local groups, have sponsored this event for the past 6 years.  Items collected include Easter goodies such as Peeps and chocolate candies, Girl Scout cookies, Boy Scout popcorn, personal items, and more. The group is asking for donations of extra treats as well as help in packing the care packages.

A great opportunity for schools or clubs to contribute to the project is through summer flower drawings, cards and letters of support. Paper and markers will be available at the event, along with refreshments for volunteers.  Everyone is invited to come lend a hand, and support this wonderful cause.

Donations for postage are always appreciated and can be mailed to: VFW Post 7659, ℅ Frank Forrest, 165 Maple St., East Hartford, CT 06118.     

For more information please call Frank Forrest at 860-690-2845 or via e-mail glastonburyvfw@aol.com.

Information on the nearly 60 Community Granges across the state can be found on the Connecticut State Grange website at www.CTStateGrange.org.