Libraries offer way for kids to thank troops

Local kids can send messages to U.S. servicemen and women and first responders through the Santa Cruz Public Library system this holiday season.
The library is partnering with Operation Gratitude to provide materials for kids to write messages and drawings to send to military troops deployed around the world. Every branch of the library will have pens, pencils, paper and art supplies on hand through the beginning of the year for kids to create welcome messages of gratitude and hope for people who cannot be home for Christmas this year.
The messages will go into more than 200,000 care packages of toiletries and treats sent across the globe by Operation Gratitude.
“As we’ve served more and more veterans at our Veterans Information Center, we have learned how important it is to create personal connections,” wrote Susan Nemits, director of the Santa Cruz Public Library System, in a news release Tuesday. “We need to let veterans and active duty members know they are valued and we’re here for them.”
Local branch libraries are at: 13390 West Park Ave. in Boulder Creek; 6299 Gushee St. in Felton; and, 251 Kings Village Rd. in Scotts Valley. Get more information about the library system at www.santacruzpl.org. Get more information about Operation Gratitude at www.operationgratitude.com.