Military service members share a common challenge: separation from home and family. That’s where the United Service Organizations (USO) steps in. For more than 75 years, the USO has worked to strengthen America’s military service members by keeping them connected to family, home, and country, throughout their service to the nation.

When troops are deployed, the USO provides a home away from home with cares packages, entertainment, and phone calls and video chats with loved ones, just to name a few. The USO also supports military families by hosting virtual story times, family meals, baby showers, kids’ activities, and spouse networking. They offer support to ill and injured service members and their families at three Warrior centers across the country. And when service members are ready to transition out of military life, the USO helps them develop a clear plan for the future and connects them to local community networks and resources.

The USO is a private organization charted by congress, so it relies on support from individuals, organizations, and volunteers, to continue its mission.

This fall Eastmark Cares is partnering with the Arizona USO for a community-wide service project.

How to get involved

1. Donate snack supplies to The ‘Mark now through Nov. 1. Sign up to donate.

2. Register for our annual Eastmark Veterans Day Breakfast on Nov. 11 and help assemble 1,400 snack packs for Fort Huachuca soldiers traveling home for the holidays. All ages are welcome to participate.

Many of the soldiers from Fort Huachuca have recently enlisted in the Army and pay for their own transportation home, leaving little extra money to purchase food while traveling. The snack bags assembled by Eastmark residents (inflatable travel neck pillows, charging banks, and other travel necessities will be added, too) will help provide nourishment for the soldiers as they travel home to their loved ones.

Need more info? Contact CommunityLife@Eastmark.com.