The local cadet corps collected over 11 pounds of mail during the Santa Claus Parade to support Canadian Armed Forces members stationed abroad.
The Sarnia Army Cadets brought a touch of home to Canadian Armed Forces members serving overseas this holiday season. With the help of the Sarnia-Lambton community, the group collected 800 letters, drawings, and words of encouragement during the recent Sarnia Santa Claus Parade.
Officer Cadet Jeremy Kearney and the cadet staff developed the initiative to align with the parade's theme, "Christmas at Home." The project resulted in 11.5 pounds of mail destined for deployed soldiers.
The letters were shipped to Belleville, Ontario, for sorting before making their way to members stationed in Latvia, Great Britain, and Germany. The cadets hope each card brings a sense of comfort to those separated from their families.
Organizers say the initiative was a massive success and demonstrates the true spirit of the Sarnia community. The Sarnia Army Cadets plan to make the collection a permanent tradition for future Santa Claus Parades.
The Cadet Program offers youth aged 12 to 18 opportunities to build leadership and teamwork skills. More information is available at cadets.ca.
