Helping Our Homeless Veterans in Boise Idaho

American Postal Workers union, Local 650 in Boise is reaching out to homeless vets and asking for the public’s help. They are putting together backpacks to be handed out on Veterans Day. You can find out more about the project in the Idaho Statesman article found here. You can help by putting together a backpack yourself or by donating money. If you’re building a full pack, here’s what should be inside:

• Flashlight with change of batteries
• BIC lighter
• First-aid kit (band-aids and ointment)
• Thermos
• One set of utensils (not plastic)
• Can opener
• Quart size zip-lock baggies
• Antibacterial no-rinse soap
• Disposable razors
• Toothbrush, toothpaste and mouthwash (alcohol-free)
• Shampoo
• Hairbrush
• Baby wipes
• Roll of toilet paper
• Pen and small pad of paper
• Instant heat packs
• Hooded rain poncho
• Emergency blanket (the kind that folds up, found at sporting goods or automotive stores)
• One pair of warm socks
• One ski cap or ski mask
• One scarf
• One pair of insulated gloves
• Ready-to-eat items, e.g. peanut butter, energy or breakfast bars or fig newtons
• Instant beverages
• Single, ready-to-serve soup or other canned goods
• Cereal packs
• Lunch and snack packs

Notes: All items must be new, except for the backpacks themselves. All food and hygiene items must be in manufacturer-sealed packages. Travel-sized toiletries are ideal. Call Bryan Thompson, APWU president, Boise Local at (650) 869-9927 to find out where the backpacks can be dropped off or for more information.

We at Idaho Estate Planning ask you to join us in supporting our troops and our veterans in any way you can.