When kids graduate from high school and "leave the nest," it can often be an emotionally challenging time for parents and children alike. Nelle Baldwin, CPCU Branch Manager is one Triad-area mom who is going through this separation and is channeling her feelings into a project aimed at helping troops deployed overseas. 

At the suggestion of Baldwin, Carolina Postal Credit Union is pleased to announce its program to provide needed supplies and encouragement to military members. Dubbed Operation – CU Troop, the drive is aimed at collecting toiletry, food and other items for military members deployed overseas.

"My son just graduated from school and is at Marine boot camp at Parris Island, SC," said Baldwin. "It looks like he might end up overseas at some point, so I wanted to do something that would help people separated from friends and loved ones over the holidays."

"Nelle suggested we take this on as a project and we quickly said yes," said CPCU President/CEO Joy Watts. "It's our pleasure to get involved in such a worthwhile community project – especially one that is so meaningful to our employees."

Triad residents are encouraged to bring approved toiletry and food items to the credit union locations in Winston-Salem and High Point between September 11 and October 27. The credit union will deliver these items to the USO for processing and shipping in time for the holidays.

In addition to the food and toiletry items, the credit union wants to send a clear message to the troops so they know they are appreciated. "We're encouraging school kids to draw pictures and write letters of encouragement," said Baldwin, "and of course, we would like everyone to collect and donate items."

Approved food items include: Coffee (instant or ground), powdered Gatorade, powdered hot chocolate, Kool-Aid, pre-sweetened tea bags, Country Time lemonade mix, Powdered Crystal Light, Tuna in the “fresh pouch,” Slim Jims, peanuts and other types of nuts.

Approved toiletry items include: disposable razors, small, individual packs of shaving cream, foot powder, shampoo and conditioner, travel size soap or body wash, deodorant, socks – thick and black only, A & D ointment, sun block, AA and AAA batteries, feminine products and Hot hands and feet (available at Wal-Mart). The credit union also encourages people to purchase and donate international calling cards as well.

Carolina Postal Credit Union has locations in Charlotte, Winston-Salem and High Point, North Carolina as well as access to over 2,300 locations across the United States. CPCU has been serving United States Postal Service and Federal Government employees and their families since 1934.  For more information, please contact Nelle Baldwin at (336) 723-1024 or Rachel Nynas at (800) 865-0445, ext. 244.