VIENNA TWP., Ohio - Vienna Township police are looking to the community to help bring a brighter holiday season for troops overseas. 

Township Police Chief Bob Ludt says something as simple as a holiday care package can make the season for someone who is not at home and not with their family. 

Ludt says that with family members who have been in the service and even a township police officer who is deployed, it's a mission that's personal to him. 

The department, along with the fire department and the airbase, is working together to collect snacks, treats, and gifts for the troops who will spend their holidays overseas. 

Ludt says they're looking for snacks and treats that will travel well- like pop tarts, beef jerky, and hard containers of chips that won't get smashed in the shipping process. 

Ludt says the best bet is to go for non-perishable snacks that can take a bit of abuse. 

In addition, Ludt says while the troops have access to water, they typically don't have access to flavored drinks, so they're asking for single use powder packages of juice, flavoring, and drink mixes that can provide some variety. 

Other options that are in high demand are travel sized version of personal hygiene items. 

And Ludt said if you're looking to donate and want an item that's sure to make the men and women overseas happy- pick up small packages of wipes. 

Ludt says the personal wipes are like gold in the hot, sandy climate where the majority of the troops are. 

They'll also be accepting cards and letters from community members who want to add a personal touch. 

Chief Ludt said he's also going to try to ask local schools to have students write letters, make cards, and draw pictures. 

He said it's the small personal touches that can brighten the holiday season for the men and women who are fighting. 

"I know if I was sitting there in the sand and I got a Christmas present, it would mean the world," said Chief Ludt. 

The presents are being collected now through the last week of November- when Ludt says he'll take everything to the airbase where they'll wrap the presents, package them up, and ship them to the troops. 

Because they'll be wrapping the presents, Ludt says donations of wrapping paper and holiday bows are also welcome. 

Donations can be dropped off any time at the Vienna Township Police Department or Vienna Fire Department.