The American Red Cross and Pitney Bowes Inc. are teaming up to deliver holiday cards to service members, their families and veterans, many of whom will be far from home this holiday season.  Now in its third year, the Holiday Mail for Heroes program provides Americans with the opportunity to extend holiday greetings and thanks to service members and veterans. 

Between November 2 and December 7, the public is invited to send a "touch of home" through holiday cards that contain messages of cheer and appreciation.  The Red Cross and Pitney Bowes will then screen cards for hazardous materials, sort and package the cards, and deliver them to military bases and hospitals, veteran's hospitals and other locations during the holidays.  Pitney Bowes is providing all screening, packaging and shipping at no charge.  The Red Cross will utilize hundreds of volunteers to sort and box cards for delivery to service men and women, veterans and family members in November and December.   "It's an honor for our community to help make the holidays special for American heroes," said Ryan Logan, emergency services director for the Central Georgia Chapter.  "The American Red Cross serves and supports members of the military, veterans, and their families by providing emergency communications, comfort and assistance each day. The Holiday Mail for Heroes program continues the Red Cross tradition of service to the armed forces."

Every year, the Central Georgia Chapter assists over 500 local military members and their families by providing 24-hour emergency communications, financial assistance, and community support.

"The men and women who serve our country in uniform deserve our thanks every single day, and sending just one card is all it takes to make a difference in the life of one of our nation's heroes," said Jon Love, President of Pitney Bowes Government Solutions.  "We are honored to participate in this important initiative again with the American Red Cross and look forward to helping the public say happy holidays and thank you."

Holiday cards can be dropped off at the Red Cross office on Holt Avenue in Macon.

Please be sure to affix adequate postage.  Cards must be received no later than December 7.  Cards received after this date will be returned to senders.  To help speed the sorting process and delivery of cards and notes before the holidays, mailers are encouraged to refrain from sending "care packages," monetary gifts, using glitter or including any other inserts. 

For a full list of recommended guidelines and best practices, please visit www.redcross.org/holidaymail