LAKEPORT — The Lakeport Senior Activity Center and the Meals on Wheels Thrift Store are collecting donations from the community during the month of July in support of Operation Tango Mike.
Operation Tango Mike, founded and headed by Ginny Craven of Lakeport, is a local non-profit organization that provides both physical and emotional support to troops overseas and their families here in the U.S.
Jonathan Crooks, executive director of the Senior Center, said, “Tango Mike has done so much for the families of troops and the seniors in our center. This is our chance to support our troops.”
Thrift store volunteer Ladona Hartman and her family are the kind of people Crooks is talking about.
After losing her grandson in Afghanistan in February 2010, Hartman was unable to afford the trip to Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia to attend the burial services. The government only covered the expenses of immediate family members. Tango Mike was able to raise the funds to send not only Hartman, but also eight additional extended family members to Virginia.
“Tango Mike is very near and dear to my heart,” Hartman said. “They”re worth supporting every penny.”
Donation boxes are located at both the senior center, located at 527 Konocti Ave., and the thrift store, located at 120 N. Main St. They are hoping to raise at least $1,395, the total amount needed to send 100 care packages to troops overseas.
These care packages include small commodities and individually wrapped food packets along with various other items. These can also be donated to participating locations. Cards, letters and drawings from children are also greatly appreciated.
Tango Mike is in most need of monetary donations as well as jerky and other meat snacks (no pork) as well as nuts and dried fruit. A full list of care package items can be obtained at the senior center in Lakeport.
The thrift store will also be holding a 50-percent-off sale July 27, with proceeds to benefit Operation Tango Mike. The thrift store will extend its hours, closing at 8 p.m.
For more information or to join Operation Tango Mike, visit www.operationtangomike.com.
