Bright Idea:'Duluth's Hugs for Soldiers' supports troops and families

Since 2003, Duluth UMC has been caring for deployed troops through its ministry Hugs for Soldiers.

It started when church member Angie Doerlich visited with the local Army Recruiting Office to see what the church could do to support soldiers serving overseas. Sergeant Christopher Long called her days later with contact names and addresses of the 2-69 Armor Battalion who had just deployed to the Middle East from Fort Benning, Ga. Sergeant Long  was able to assist in making suggestions for shipping care packages.

Since then, Hugs for Soldiers has been sending care packages, cards and letters of encouragement to soldiers. Along with many supporters and volunteers, the program grew and now touches the lives of thousands.  

Recently, Doerlich has had the privilege of working closely with Commanders, Chaplains, and Family Readiness Groups to expand the ministry to supporting families during deployments of loved ones.

More than 150 spouses and children have been sponsored by Duluth’s caring supporters.

One easy way for your church or group to take part is by writing “thank you” cards to soldiers. Just write a note on a purchased or handmade card (no glitter, please) and mail the card to Hugs for Soldiers, P. O. Box 2887, Duluth, GA  30096. They send the cards on to soldiers.