Huck Plyler updates the Hope Lions Club on his work.
Huck Plyler of Spring Hill, having just turned twelve last week, spoke at Monday’s meeting of the Hope Lions Club to update it on his project of providing care packages to veterans and also provided a summary of his campaign to gain prizes for his livestock at the upcoming county fair.
“I’ve been sending military care packages ever since I was six,” Plyler said, striking a distinctive figure in his cowboy hat and proud belt buckle. “I’ve been sending them, and I like sending them. We’ve sent over 1,500 boxes. A lot of people have helped me, supported me along the way. If any of you have any addresses [of veterans], they’re well-needed.”
As he spoke, Lions were able to inspect printouts describing the project and listing what items would be needed. “It takes about $20 to send a box. We’re always needing donations and everything else to send them.”
Plyler listed the main items used: “socks, toothpaste, deodorant, cards they like to play.” He said his project brings a lot of items to veterans at the VA hospital.
Those wishing to donate items are encouraged to use a drop-off location at the Hempstead County Farm Bureau Office.
Plyler said his project was popular at the Charolais Junior Nationals back in June in Grand Island, Nebraska, collecting many donations at the event, which he said was attended by 3,000 people.
An Amazon.com link exists to further help Plyler with supplies for veterans.
Plyler read from a letter providing a progress report on his doings during the summer, showing calves at various places in the state and in Nebraska at the Charolais Junior Nationals. He said that though inflation had raised the prices of feed and supplies, he continues to enjoy taking care of his animals.
He will be showing some of them at the Hempstead County Fair starting Thursday and will be participating in the Premium Sale the following Saturday.
Plyler took some questions afterward. He said many veterans had written him letters in gratitude for receiving the boxes of items. “They all send letters back. They’ll contact me on the facebook page. They all say they’re grateful and thankful for the packages.”
