GALION – A local business is ready to kick off a drive to support American troops this holiday season.

Piper’s Collision Center, 374 S. Market St., is joining forces with Operation Support Our Troops-America to fill stockings for military members through its Comfort and Care Package program.  But the drive is also about boosting morale.

“My whole family’s military – uncles, brother, cousins,’ said Jamie, the office manager at Piper’s Collision Center.  “These guys are all stationed overseas.  They’re always low on much-needed items.”

The automotive business is accepting donations for the program beginning Oct. 1 through Nov. 30.  Items will then be sorted, packaged, and sent to OSOT in Naperville, Illinois, for shipment by Christmas to thousands of service men and women.

A way to thank America’s heroes for their service – and sacrifice.

“We’re thankful for their service, and this is our way to give back,” said Jeremy Piper, founder, and owner of Piper’s Collision.

A variety of personal items are being collected, including lip balm, cough drops, toothbrushes, and travel-sized toothpaste and mouthwash.  Also needed are dental floss and small bottles of antacids and pain relief medication.

Other suggestions on OSOT-America’s approved list include food items such as microwave popcorn, beef jerky, candy canes, individually wrapped snack cookies or trail mix, and single mix packets for coffee, hot chocolate, and cold drinks.

Cards and personal letters are always welcome and encouraged, along with non-breakable ornaments, playing cards, lens cleaning wipes, Beanie Babies, hand warmers, footpowder, and $25 gift cards for Amazon.

Since its founding in 2003, OSOT has become one of the largest volunteer-based military support organizations in the country.  Its mission is to provide comfort, resources, and education to the military and their families while stationed and at home.

Piper’s Collision, which opened in 2006, also served as a military drop site for the American Red Cross several years ago, Jamie said.  “We’re just excited to be able to finally do it again this year and are hoping for a good response from the community.”

Donations can be dropped off at Piper’s Collision Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.  A complete list of products needed for the stocking drive can be found online at osotamerica.org