BR Soldier Outreach Expands Holiday Drive to Support Nearly 1,000 Deployed Heroes

Baton Rouge, LA — October 30, 2025 — BR Soldier Outreach (BRSO), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that sends comfort and care to deployed U.S. troops, has officially kicked off its largest holiday campaign to date — preparing nearly 1,000 Christmas stockings for 26 military units stationed around the globe. This initiative, which continues to grow with new units joining weekly, is a powerful reminder of the impact a community can make when it comes together to support our troops.

Christy Smith – Founder and CEO of BR Soldier Outreach

“Every time we think we’ve reached our limit, more names come in,” said Christy Smith, Founder and CEO of BR Soldier Outreach. “These soldiers aren’t asking for much — just a small taste of home and a note to say we remember them. We can’t turn that down.”

Comfort from Home, Packed with Care

The expanded operation will feature multiple “Stocking Stuffing” volunteer events in November, as BRSO ramps up to meet record demand. Volunteers and partner organizations will assemble care packages filled with snacks, drink mixes, and comfort items for troops deployed worldwide.

Suggested donation items include:

• Beef jerky, protein or granola bars, trail mix, pretzels, and snack cakes
• Cheese and peanut butter crackers, chips, and sunflower seeds
• Candy, pudding cups, raisins, and Goldfish crackers
• Water flavoring mixes, Tony’s, or other seasonings
• Postage donations to cover shipping costs

Nanette Patin, Vice President of BR Soldier Outreach

“These small things matter more than people realize,” said Nanette Patin, Vice President of BR Soldier Outreach. “Every package carries the message that someone back home is thinking of them — that they’re not forgotten.”

Updated Drop-Off Locations

Donations can now be made at 10 community partner sites across Greater Baton Rouge and beyond:

• Towers’ Baton Rouge Harley-Davidson – 5853 Siegen Ln, Baton Rouge, LA
• Texas Roadhouse – 10360 N Mall Dr, Baton Rouge, LA
• Benton Brothers – 115 N Range Ave, Denham Springs, LA
• The Bookstore – 10466 Airline Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA
• The Artist’s Loft Gifts & Antiques – BRSO Booth – 7751 Antioch Rd, Baton Rouge, LA
• Zachary Fire Department – 4525 Main St, Zachary, LA
• Zachary Farmer’s Market – 4601 Lee St, Zachary, LA
• Screen Tech Promotions – 11790 Florida Blvd, Denham Springs, LA
• Holmes Building Materials – Baton Rouge – 7835 Airline Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA
• Holmes Building Materials – Denham Springs – 1102 Florida Ave SE, Denham Springs, LA

Can’t make it to a location? BRSO volunteers will arrange a local pickup for bulk donations or community drives.

Community Mobilization for Military Support

This year’s initiative is powered by partnerships with Wreaths by Christy, the Department of Louisiana Marine Corps League Auxiliary, the Baton Rouge Young Marines, and the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA). Together, these groups ensure every stocking and care box is carefully packed, tracked, and delivered to its destination on time, with the utmost care and respect for our deployed heroes.

With more than 170,000 U.S. troops deployed overseas, the need for connection remains high. BR Soldier Outreach’s work complements national programs from Blue Star Families and the National Military Family Association, reinforcing the importance of morale and mental health support for those serving abroad. Your help is needed now more than ever.

A Tradition of Gratitude

Since its founding, BR Soldier Outreach has shipped over 10,000 pounds of care items to deployed service members, spending more than $50,000 in postage to deliver comfort “one package at a time.” The organization’s long-standing mission — “Comfort for Heroes, One Package at a Time” — continues to inspire volunteers, donors, and local businesses each season.

“We can’t all serve overseas,” Smith added, “but we can all serve from home — one stocking, one package, one soldier at a time.”

How to Help

• Donate items or funds online through the official BR Soldier Outreach website.
• Volunteer at a stuffing event by emailing info@brsoldieroutreach.com
• Spread the word on social media to help reach more supporters

Local schools, youth groups, and civic clubs seeking volunteer hours are especially encouraged to participate.

About BR Soldier Outreach

Founded in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, BR Soldier Outreach is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to bringing comfort and care to deployed U.S. service members through quarterly care package shipments. The organization relies on the generosity of community partners, sponsors, and volunteers to support America’s heroes throughout the year.

Media Contact:
Christy Smith – Founder & CEO, BR Soldier Outreach
Email: info@brsoldieroutreach.com
Phone: 225-936-1161
Website: brsoldieroutreach.com