The Coast Guard Foundation, in conjunction with the Jersey Cape Military Spouses' Club, helped brighten 250 new Coast Guard recruits' holiday this year by sending them stuffed stockings, which included gift cards, tote bags, snacks and assorted toiletries.

During the initial period of enlistment, recruits are not allowed to receive gifts from home or have any interaction with their families. This isolation combined with the strenuous training regimen makes this time especially challenging for these young men and women.

"The stockings were a success," said Kathy Gibbons, a member of the spouses club. "The recruits truly appreciated their gift cards and socks that were made possible by your generous donation. Thanks to donors like you we were able to ensure that every recruit received a stocking filled with goodies."