For the seventh consecutive year, Boot Campaign spread extra holiday cheer to veteran and active duty military families nationwide through our Santa Boots program.
We are pleased to share that it was our most
impactful year yet! The numbers and growth of the
effort are awesome, but the personalized experiences
and heartwarming emotions felt are even better.

An active duty Army service member, who recently returned home from Afghanistan and experienced the August 26 attack on the airport, only wanted to be home for the holidays. He was taken aback by the generosity as Boot Campaign volunteers arrived at his doorstep. One volunteer who helped deliver the family's holiday surprise shared:

“Dad was so emotional he had to leave the room
for a few minutes. They were so grateful, emotional
and shocked. Both sets of grandparents also joined via FaceTime and mom’s parents (who are also active duty) were just in awe, saying that they’d heard about holiday programs for military families but they’d never seen anything so personal like this.”

While giving gifts might seem like a simple act, this year
we heard feedback from a recipient who received a surprise box last year that the unexpected holiday arrival symbolized so much more. The veteran shared that he had already written a letter to leave behind for his friends and family
and planned to end his life. When his Santa Boots box
appeared from Boot Campaign, he knew there were
grateful Americans who cared about him and his future. We’re honored to say that he is still here and receiving the care he needs.

To all those who supported our Santa Boots program, thank you! As we look forward, we are focused on one thing: Letting veterans know year round that their service, their sacrifice and their lives matter. We ask for your continued support by making a donation, sharing our efforts on social media or lacing up a pair of combat boots to outwardly express your gratitude for those that serve.