The Black Belt Chapter of the American Red Cross is thankful for the thousands of American troops serving overseas this holiday season and is sending several care packages to show its gratitude.

Jakki Caldwell-Phillips, director of the Black Belt Chapter, said the organization sent eight care packages Tuesday containing basic items, such as canned goods, popcorn, body wash and lip balm.

“We want to do this because it brings a little bit of home to where they are,” Phillips said. “The holidays are a perfect time for acts of kindness. “

Phillips said the care packages, and more than 800 Christmas cards, will be distributed to military bases in Kuwait, Afghanistan and Djibouti.

She said they are no longer accepting donations, unless Selma residents want to leave a monetary donation to pay for postage.

A total of 12 volunteers donated supplies and helped pack boxes. Phillips said she might prepare more care packages in the near future, if the boxes can reach the military bases before Christmas.

The care packages are part of a national effort by the American Red Cross to thank soldiers during the holiday season.

“The holiday season is really a perfect time for acts of kindness,” Phillips said.