• Troops overseas appreciate receiving a little bit of home.a soldier on exercise image by Pavel Bernshtam from Fotolia.com
  
  Troops serving in other countries do not always have access to supplies they may need or desire. Americans are able to help support the troops by sending certain items overseas for the use of soldiers. Items that can be sent to soldiers must not be perishable, able to melt, breakable, or sensitive to explosion in heat.
  
  

Instant Beverages

• Certain non-perishable food items may be sent to troops, according to Operation Military Pride. Instant coffee, powdered drinks, powdered hot chocolate, and tea bags may be sent overseas.
  
  

Snack Foods

• Certain snack foods can be sent to troops. These include any kind of crackers or chips, cheese that is not in an aerosol can, Slim Jims and other beef jerky products, gum, power bars, granola bars, and Rice Krispy treats. Dried fruit and Chex Mix are also good snack foods to send overseas. Varieties of snack cakes may be sent as well.
  
  

Microwavable Meals

• Simple items to make microwavable meals are good choices to send to the troops. Easy Mac and Cheese, Ragu Express, canned chicken and tuna fish, dried and canned soup, and summer sausage may be sent. Breakfast items such as oatmeal and cereal can also be sent to soldiers.
  
  

Items for Everyday Use

• Deployed troops may lack basic items most people use on a daily basis and take for granted. Providing these items to soldiers can help make them feel more comfortable and are greatly appreciated. Items such as disinfecting wipes and baby wipes are good items to send overseas. Soldiers are in great need of T-shirts, socks and underwear. Sunblock and lip balm are needed to protect soldiers from excessive sun exposure.
  
  

Items for Hygiene

• Troops are in great need of basic items needed to maintain hygiene. Females need items such as tampons and panty liners. All soldiers need soap, shampoos, body wash, dental products, powders, shaving cream, lotions, nail files and deodorant.
  
  

Recreational Items

• Soldiers have a tough job when deployed and appreciate recreational items that make their life a little more enjoyable. Items troops typically need are batteries, pens and paper, stamps, puzzles, books, magazines, Frisbees, and portable radios and CD players. Soldiers also need phone cards to make calling home easier.