Military charity issues plea

VERNON — Nancy and Mark Wolfe, directors of Supplies for Soldiers, a Vernon based non-profit corporation, are busy gathering items of basic comfort, morale boosters and treats to be included in Easter/Passover bags for our service personnel overseas.
Hopeful shipment date is March 16 or 17, however, the Wolfes were amazed to learn that arbitrary postal rates may dampen our service people’s holidays. According to Mark, there were previously five postal centers located throughout the country that processed APO (Army Post Offices) military mail. The five centers have now been consolidated into one single center located in Chicago.
“This is taking a major toll on non-profit organizations and individuals wishing to send packages to military men and women,” stated the couple.
Supplies for Soldiers must, as of Jan. 1, 2018, pay the domestic postage rate from New Jersey to Chicago. With the Wolfes’ new calculation, a 35-pound box was previously mailed at the old rate of $28.55. The new rate to the Chicago APO would be $56.60.
“This price has literally doubled,” said Nancy.
The Wolfes are devastated that this will probably drastically reduce the number of packages sent out to overseas military service people.
“It’s a tragic shame because of the rate increase, our service men and women are being impacted and will be deprived due to the increase,” Mark said sadly.
“We are imploring our community to reach out to the media, politicians and social media to pressure the USPS to “roll back” this change for the non-profits serving the military community.”
The Wolfes and their volunteers dedicatedly work to supply soldiers with much needed items and the comforts of home. They have since contacted US Rep. Josh Gottheimer about the situation and will be seeking out the Chairman of the Postal Regulatory Commission Robert G. Taub on a resolution of the problem.
To volunteer, donate or for further information on the organization call 973-400-8224 or visit www. suppliesforsoldiers.org.