Operation Gratitude is a national nonprofit that honors active-duty military members, veterans, first responders and military families through care packages, letters of appreciation and hands-on volunteer opportunities. Founded in 2003, they have delivered more than 4 million care packages to people who serve or have served our country and communities. Care packages provide practical items and personal expressions of appreciation that remind recipients that their service and sacrifices are remembered.

Active-duty service members can request free care packages for their units. Veterans can also receive care packages through requests associated with VA hospitals, transition programs, veteran organizations and stand-down events. First responder care packages are available for firefighters, law enforcement officers, EMTs and paramedics. They also recognizes the children of military service members through its Battalion Buddies program, providing special care packages designed to support military children.

Individuals, families, schools, churches, businesses and community organizations can participate in Operation Gratitude volunteer opportunities. Volunteers can write letters of appreciation, make approved handmade items, create paracord lanyards, participate in care-package assembly events and help deliver expressions of gratitude to veterans and first responders in their own communities.

Many volunteer activities can be completed from home, making Operation Gratitude an opportunity for San Antonio and Bexar County residents to support military members, veterans and first responders even when a local in-person event is not available. Military members, veterans, first responders and organizations interested in receiving care packages can contact Operation Gratitude to review current programs, eligibility and request requirements.