California - Shuls Gather Shalach Manos For Troops Stationed Overseas

California - Jewish troops stationed in Afghanistan and Iraq will not be forgotten at Purim next month, as local congregations and from around the nation are preparing to send them packages for the gift-giving holiday.

The Rabbi of Kehillas Torah in Rancho Penasquitos said the Shalach Manos packages for the troops will contain more than what usually is given for Purim.
"We usually give baskets of food and stuff to fellow Jews," he said. "But we're going to throw in personal items that they may need."

"Last year we sent more than 300 packages in 2005, its inaugural year. "This year we're well on our way to sending 500," he said.

"Letters from troops who received baskets last year showed they enjoyed "good old kosher nosh."