Cheer those in the military with ‘Cards for a Cause’
Published 12:05 pm Tuesday, October 18, 2016
- Submitted photo Rowan Public Library is supporting 'Cards with a Cause,' a chance to make holiday cards for those serving in the military.
SALISBURY – Where will you be this holiday season? Hopefully, you’ll be celebrating with family and friends.
Too often, though, the holidays are a reminder of the miles that separate loved ones, and many service members in the United States armed forces know those pangs of separation all too well.
Rowan Public Library’s “Cards for a Cause” offers patrons the opportunity to spread some cheer and send holiday cards to service members in the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines.
“People don’t realize how much of a difference this can make,” said a recruiter from the Salisbury office.
“Cards for a Cause” runs from Oct. 20 through Nov. 26, with special Saturday programs on Nov. 5 and 26 to encourage participation. The entire RPL system – headquarters in Salisbury, South Rowan Regional in China Grove, and East branch in Rockwell – is participating in this program.
Beginning Oct. 20, patrons can visit any RPL branch and craft their cards. Pre-printed holiday cards, blank cardstock, and crafting supplies will be on hand, though patrons are also welcome to bring their own materials. Patrons can also specify a branch (or branches) of the Armed Forces for their cards’ delivery.
RPL branches will also accept already-composed holiday cards for delivery. Staff will sort the cards and arrange delivery to their respective recruiting offices; the offices will then forward the cards on to service members.
Last year, RPL patrons produced more than 230 “Cards for a Cause.”
“I hope that we will get many more cards,” said East Branch page Holly Shue. Shue, whose parents are Navy veterans, suggested the program because “I thought that Christmas would be an especially hard time for people who serve in all the branches.”
The holiday outreach also “gives people an opportunity to give something to those who serve every single day. I think it’s important because, hopefully, (receiving a card) will brighten their day and make them feel that they have not been forgotten,” she said.
To participate in “Cards for a Cause,” visit any branch of the Rowan Public Library. For more information about the program, call the East Branch at 704-216-7840 or visit www.rowanpubliclibrary.org.
