Credit Union Sends Patriot Packages to U.S. Soldiers in Afghanistan

Packages are made up of donated items that include non-perishable foods,� personable health and beauty aids, pillowcases, gum, socks, boot odor eaters,� moist wipes, stationery, office supplies, and treats and goodies that travel� well. Hand-written notes thanking the troops for their service are also� included. "This project came about as a result of wanting to do something to support� RTN employees loved ones in the services and expanded to all our troops� overseas, to let them know they are appreciated and remembered here at home,"� says Deborah Nurse, RTNs director of strategic initiatives. Supplies are gathered in RTN branches, and packages are made up in and� mailed out of the Waltham branch. Collectively, RTN has mailed out 40 packages� through the U.S. mail to deployed soldiers. "RTN has a strong tradition of community service, and with our connection to� serving employees in the defense industry, this effort was a perfect project for� us to pursue," Nurse said. "As we wind down sending out packages, we look� forward to being involved in community projects that provide support for our� troops as they return home." Support Our Troops is part of the credit unions ongoing commitment to� support programs and initiatives in the community. Founded in 1945, RTN is one� of the largest credit unions in Massachusetts, with $800 million in assets and� close to 50,000 members, according to the business.