NORWICH – Chenangoites will have a unique opportunity to spread the Christmas spirit overseas this weekend and help the men and women still deployed in war-torn Afghanistan, who are in short supply of life’s bare necessities. Theresa Crossman of Norwich will be taking collections of non-perishable foods and hygienic supplies, Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., outside her barn at 6332 County Road 32, where she will be operating a donations table. Whether or not individuals agree with the U.S.’s war in the Middle East, Crossman’s Christmas care packages are an appropriate chance for any American to extend compassion to their fellows suffering overseas, who themselves hold little sway over the government’s foreign policies.

Crossman and her husband recently bought a house just outside of Norwich after a long search for a good community to retire in. “I thought this would be a great way to reach out to the community,” she said.