The 2nd Annual ‘HEART of the Red, White & Blue Drive’ Going on Now

The 2nd Annual 'HEART of the Red, White & Blue' military care package drive sponsored by Farmers Bank and Trust is going on now through Veterans Day, November 11

The bank is .the bank is collecting items to send to deployed troops. Last year, soldiers received a little treat from home and enjoyed the care package items that lasted for up to two weeks.

U.S. Army Specialist Amber Baker said.

“When we got them, it really boosted our morale,” Being overseas without family and little resources made you feel so far from home. These care packages with the goodies, letters, and other supplies brightened everyone’s day. You can tell they were made with love. To know we have that much support back home means so much while deployed.”

This drive became a bank-wide community project when two employees, Chelsy Short and Katie Burkett, who have family and friends serving overseas, came up with the idea.

Retired Army Sergeant First Class Jason Mitchell said.

“It’s like when you hear a song and it takes you to a place and time in life, when you receive a small sentimental token of appreciation and love (a simple piece of candy perhaps) and you’re briefly transported back home because someone took the time to care,���

Anyone can drop off items for the care packages at any Farmers Bank & Trust location in Malvern, Texarkana, Camden, Hope, Magnolia, and New Boston. Cash donations will also be accepted. One complete care package only cost $20 to fill.

Farmers Bank & Trust CEO Chris Gosnell said

“This bank-wide community project fits with the Farmers Bank & Trust HEART core values and giving mission,”  “We want the men and women who have chosen to serve our country to know they are appreciated, and we haven’t forgotten the sacrifice they’ve made.”

Suggested Items to donate include things like Slim Jims, crackers, chips, Little Debbie cakes, Crystal Light drink packets, baby wipes, Gold Bond powder, bug spray, sunscreen, soap, dental kits, playing cards, board games, etc. Please refrain from dropping off cans or heavy items.