‘Operation Christmas’ Collection for the Troops

Crofton’s is working to make the holidays a little better for troops stationed overseas with “Operation Christmas.”

VIDEO: explains items needed for “Operation Christmas.” The collection ends October 19.

The project collects toiletries, candy, trinkets and cards to uplift the spirits of servicemen and women in Iraq and Afghanistan. Woda said the Crofton effort works with “Operation Give” in Utah.

She started “Operation Christmas” back in 2007 when she worked with an agency in the Crofton Village Green. Back then Woda and her coworkers managed to collect goods for 30 “goodie bags” for troops.

Since 2009, Woda has lead the charge with her coworkers at on Defense Highway. That Christmas the real estate team managed to collect enough for more than 100 bags.

. The surprise gifts included:

• 108 bags of candy
• 92 puzzle books and sharpened pencils
• 46 decks of cards
• 65 notebooks
• 92 pairs of socks
• 18 pairs of sunglasses
• 18 zippered pouches with feminine hygiene products
• 108 toothbrushes and toothpaste
• 500 assorted toiletries
• 108 hand-written holiday cards
• 108 unique gift items

Now the team is working on their 2011 project. They hope to fill 128 bags, but they need your help.

The relators are asking people to drop off donations at Crofton-Bowie office 2191 Defense Highway by October 19.

The following items are needed:

• Assorted toiletries
• Paperback books
• White no-logo socks
• 5½ x 8½ inch puzzle books
• Toys appropriate for a 20-yr. old
• Tissue packs or wipes
• Healthy snacks such as granola bars, trail mix, etc.
• Unique gift items  (Frisbees, manicure kits, reading lights, pocket size flashlights, packages of disposable razors, and packages of AA Batteries. As a bonus, every gift bag also included a handful of assorted loose candies and gum.)

A pdf with the complete list of needed items is attached to this story. Items with a checkmark indicate these are already a surplus.

If you are unable to shop for items, but still want to donate to the cause you can make a check payable to “Margaret Woda” and forward it to the office.