Moms who have children deployed overseas, collect donations to send care packages to our troops

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN)- A good remedy for homesickness can come in the form of a good care package from a loved one.

From food to small trinkets each one can help subside those feelings of wanting for home.

Shoppers at Super Saver on 27th and Cornhusker highway added a bit more to their grocery list to help military personnel get a taste of that feeling.

The Blue Star Mothers of America, Nebraska chapter 2 spent the day in the heat urging customers to consider helping donate to their cause.

President of Nebraska chapter 2 Lisa Compton said their goal is to fill personalized care packages with foods and memories of home here in Nebraska.

“As hot as it is outside here today, those serving are in a much hotter place,” Compton said. “So if we can send them a touch of home and bring them a little bit of Nebraska, that’s what we want to do.”

The group which goes by the nickname “The Heartland Moms” stood outside the local grocery store chain handing out fliers with recommended snacks along with their locations in store for easy shopping.

“The packages aren’t necessarily going to our kids, but to anyone that might be deployed,” Compton said.

She said that her children and others in the group recounted stories of their packages being shared amongst those across the sea as a way to spread the joy to all of those stationed outside the U.S.

The Moms outreach coordinator, Stephaine Campbell said that no matter how far away their children may be station they will always be their babies, and the sisterhood that comes with being a member helps dull the pain of an empty nest.

“When they are not home and they are somewhere else it is really hard, and having these other moms that know exactly what you are going through, it’s amazing,” said Campbell.

Today’s event may already be over but Compton said that any mother that has a child that has served or is currently serving is welcome to reach out and be a part of the group.

“You miss your kid, you have a hole in your heart cause they’re off serving in the military,” Compton said. “So by us having some of these events, it helps fill that void to do positive things for those who are serving.”

For those interested in finding out more about the group, they meet on the second Sunday of every month at 2 P.M. at the VFW building located at 2431 N. 48th street.