Credit Union Sends Patriot Packages to U.S. Soldiers in Afghanistan

Packages are made up of donated items that include non-perishable foods,  personable health and beauty aids, pillowcases, gum, socks, boot odor eaters,  moist wipes, stationery, office supplies, and treats and goodies that travel  well. Hand-written notes thanking the troops for their service are also  included. “This project came about as a result of wanting to do something to support  RTN employees’ loved ones in the services and expanded to all our troops  overseas, to let them know they are appreciated and remembered here at home,”  says Deborah Nurse, RTN’s director of strategic initiatives. Supplies are gathered in RTN branches, and packages are made up in and  mailed out of the Waltham branch. Collectively, RTN has mailed out 40 packages  through the U.S. mail to deployed soldiers. “RTN has a strong tradition of community service, and with our connection to  serving employees in the defense industry, this effort was a perfect project for  us to pursue,” Nurse said. “As we wind down sending out packages, we look  forward to being involved in community projects that provide support for our  troops as they return home.” Support Our Troops is part of the credit union’s ongoing commitment to  support programs and initiatives in the community. Founded in 1945, RTN is one  of the largest credit unions in Massachusetts, with $800 million in assets and  close to 50,000 members, according to the business.