City of Costa Mesa's adopted Marine unit coming home from Afghanistan

The City of Costa Mesa has launched a holiday care package drive to welcome home its adopted Marine Corps unit for Christmas, and is seeking donations. The 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment is due home before Christmas from a tour in Afghanistan.

The city is seeking donations of nonperishable items, as well as tax-deductible monetary contributions and gift cards for purchases of perishable foods, which will go toward supporting the returning Marines and their families.

Suggested nonperishable donations include: stuffing mix, canned vegetables, canned fruit, Jello, coffee, tea, cocoa, non-refrigerated juice, soft drink mixes, such as Crystal Lite, powdered creamer, boxed sugar, packaged cereal, pancake/waffle mix, syrup, cake/dessert mix, snack items such as beef jerky, canned or packaged nuts, dried fruit, granola bars, popcorn/kettlecorn, Pop Tarts, Protein bars, Slim Jims, and sunflower seeds.

Other suggested items for family care packages include: laundry detergent, handmade quilts, blankets, soap/body wash, hand lotion, shampoo/conditioner, toys and books for toddlers.

Financial contributions should be made out to “City of Costa Mesa 1/5 Fund,” and sent to Colleen O’Donoghue, assistant finance director,PO Box 1200, Costa Mesa, CA 92628-1200. Food and other bulk items should be dropped off at City Hall, at 77 Fair Drive. All donations should be sent by Dec. 18.

— Imran Vittachi