On March 25, the Sun City Board approved placing McHenry County’s “Operation Dropbox” at the Meadow View and Prairie Lodges for the month of May. Residents are invited to donate essential items to support the McHenry County Veterans Assistance Commission.
Dino Micheli, Communications Secretary, shared that the Sun City Veterans Club has supported Veterans Path to Hope since its founding in August 2022.
Ken Kalscheur, founder of the Veterans Charter Club, stated, “The Veterans Charter Club has worked with Veterans Path to Hope almost from the beginning. Laura Franz, Executive Director, has been a speaker and strong supporter, receiving donations at our meetings.”
Veterans need support, as many experience challenges such as PTSD and require help obtaining shelter, food, and clothing.
Now in its seventh year, Operation Dropbox is an annual drive supporting over 3,000 veterans and families in McHenry and Lake counties. The initiative includes cooperation with local health departments.
The organization provides resources such as mental health counseling, peer support, and caregiver training, helping an average of 10 to 15 households each day.
In 2025, the drive gathered 11,427 pounds of donations from 132 organizations. The club will monitor donation boxes at both lodges.
The program specifically seeks store-bought essentials, including:
Food items: canned meats, soups, pasta meals, peanut butter, jelly, cereal, granola bars, and juice
Household essentials: detergents, cleaners, paper towels, toilet paper, and garbage bags
Personal care: full-size hygiene products, new pillows, cookware, and can openers
Gift cards: Walmart and gas station gift cards are also highly encouraged
To contribute, bring your donated items to the drop boxes at Meadow View or Prairie Lodge this May to directly assist local veterans and their families. To learn exactly which items you may donate or for more details, visit mcdh.link/operation-dropbox.
