Help Teen Send Gifts To Sister's Unit, Stationed Overseas

NEW CITY, NY — For the fourth year, Rockland County teen Trey Rolnick, whose sister is serving overseas, has launched his "essential goods" project to send supplies and treats over to the troops.

"Sam’s Soldiers has grown exponentially since we first started in 2020," Rolnick told Patch. "We have been able to raise approximately $125,000 and provide about 1,500 soldiers with care packages for the holiday season! I am immensely grateful for the unwavering support from our amazing community."

Again this year, he and his family have created a GoFundMe page for donations to help him cover the cost of the care packages he puts together every November of toiletries and basic winter essentials, such as blankets, hats, and gloves. So far they've raised $9,054 of their $20,000 goal.

"We are hoping to ship out all of our holiday care packages by the first weekend in December," Rolnick told Patch.

Rolnick said that given the current circumstances, he may not disclose information regarding Sam’s new unit.

"However, we can report that she has recently been promoted to Captain! I am so proud of her and all that she has accomplished since her stationing in Europe in late 2019," he said. "I am her #1 fan constantly, and I will always support her and her soldiers through all their endeavors."

When he was 13, Rolnick raised $11,717 to send care packages to 75 soldiers in Italy during the pandemic, and was surprised by a visit from his sister, then a 2nd Lieutenant in the 173rd Airborne Brigade.

Now he's a junior at Bergen Catholic High School and preparing for college.

"Since starting Operation Santa: Sam’s Soldiers in 2020, I have endured so many life experiences that I will carry with me forever," Rolnick said. "I have been able to connect with US soldiers throughout Europe and learn more about the amazing troops that we are supporting with our fundraiser.

"Hearing from these soldiers directly only strengthens the appreciation that I have for these dedicated troops and I am privileged to represent Operation Santa: Sam’s Soldiers in doing everything I can."

SEE ALSO:

• Teen Who Raised $11K For Soldier Sister's Unit Gets Best Gift
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