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Our Staff & Volunteers  FAQ's about sending a Package


****** Adoption FAQ's ******

 

       
This page was designed to address Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) from future adopters.   Information specific to sending packages is available on our Sending a Package FAQ page:  Send Packages

                 

volunteers

Volunteers with a garage full of boxes ready  to ship
         


This is a copy of a letter that is sent out to each new adopter.  Due to the volume of people asking to adopt along with the requests from our Trooper's to be adopted, we are unable to spend the time sending out these letters... It contains a lot of valuable information for you.    Information
               

      
How long will it take to receive information about my trooper?

Depending on the volume of requests, you should receive an e-mail from Julieann within 5-7 days.   If you have not received an e-mail after this time, please check your bulk email or "junk" folder.   If you did not receive an email, please re-submit the form and note in the comments that it is your second request.

Many e-mails are returned to us due to an incorrect e-mail address.    Please ensure that you are providing your correct e-mail address when you sign up or we will not be able to reach you.
      

     
Is it possible to receive a trooper from my state?

Occasionally we are able to match adopters to troopers based on home state when requested.    But please understand that only one person handles the adoption assignments which already takes several hours a day.    Our first priority is to make sure that trooper assignments are made in a timely fashion and special requests can significantly slow down the process.

Webmaster Note: While having a trooper from your own State might be fun, adopting a trooper is the name of this project.  All of our troopers need the support--my four Adoptee's are all from different States.
   

       
How old is my trooper?   Is my trooper married?

We will share everything we know about your trooper with you.   We do not ask for personal information as it is not important to our mission.   You may view the trooper signup form Trooper signup to view the questions we ask.

Has my trooper received their package?

We have no way of knowing.   Once you have been assigned to a trooper, you are the sole contact, not ASWL.    If you were given an e-mail address for your trooper, you may contact them directly.    Please understand that not all troopers have their own computers and often have very limited computer access.

We also suggest enclosing a self-addressed envelope with paper to make it easy for your trooper to contact you (no stamp is necessary).

Our troops are in "harm's way" and may not be able to answer you or will do so when they are able.    If you require an acknowledgment, please do not participate in this program.

Webmaster Note: 11 Aug 2008:  As I am in a better position than most, I have 4 adopted at the moment (3 men & 1 woman).   Some of them get back to me within a week, others I am lucky to hear from them in months.  Sometimes by e-mail and sometimes by mail, I continue with my support and care packages.   All of my former Adoptee's have made it home safely.

     
My trooper was scheduled to come home on (date).    Has this changed?

If the trooper has updated their status with us (rare), we will share that information with you.    In most cases we simply have no way of knowing.
    

     
I can't afford to buy expensive items or send packages every month.   Can I still participate?

Of course!    Wish list items are provided as guidance; you are not required to purchase everything or anything on the wish list.    If finances are tight, sign up to send a single package.    When you're ready to send another one, simply sign up again.

Remember, letters and e-mails are priceless to our troops.
       

      
Any special instructions for the first package?

Be sure to indicate on your package that you are with "A Soldier's Wish List" so the soldier knows it comes from a trusted source.

To make it easy for your soldier to contact you, include a self-addressed envelope. No stamp is necessary.

Remember to e-mail Lisa at lisavwood@gmail.com after you have mailed your first package.

A note from the Webmaster 11 Aug 2008:  In each case of obtaining a new adoptee, I make contact with them by mail / e-mail.  I tell them a little about myself and ask them for their wish list.   Most want just simple things, hygiene items top the list, baby wipes and disposable razors are right near the top.

     
How often should I send a box?

This is up to you.   However, if you signed up to send packages for the trooper's full deployment and you are no longer able to do so, please contact us so we can reassign your trooper.

A note from the Webmaster 11 Aug 2008:  I try to fill their wish list within reason and ask each of them that when their supplies get low to let me know.  Then I send a small box of goodies often as I can.  Never worry about sending too much, they share with those that do not receive a box.  Heavy white socks are always welcome.
      


When should I stop sending packages?

You will receive your trooper's approximate return date when you receive your assignment.   Send your last package or letter 30 days before their return date to ensure that it is received.   You can be sure the trooper will let you know when they will be heading home.
    

      
I would like another trooper.    What do I do?

Please complete another Adopt a Trooper form.    Mention in the comments section that you are a current adopter and would like a second, third, etc. trooper.
     

     
Any shopping recommendations?
 

For Troops who ask for Calling Cards: You can order them on line at www.aafes.com .  They are military ones with better minutes.   I order them for some of our soldiers.   Having them sent directly to the "trooper" is much faster.

BOOTS - Visit http://www.uspatriotstore.com  We've been told these are the best and have sent hundreds of these to our troops.   If the order form asks for a phone number, enter (803) 787-9398.   The city is the APO and the state is the AE or AP.

FOOD - We suggest www.netgrocer.com

ITEMS TO BEAT THE HEAT - This company will donate one free wrap to a lucky soldier for every two you buy! www.iceywrap.com
      


I need step by step info on how to send a package.    Can you help?

Information specific to sending packages is available on our Sending a Package FAQ page here.
    

 

Last Update 25 Aug 2008

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