Girl Scouts of Nassau County (GSNC), in partnership with DHL Express, delivered nearly 60,000 packages of Girl Scout Cookies® to U.S. military personnel stationed around the world and locally, as well as first responders throughout Long Island. The effort was made possible through the continued generosity of community members who purchased additional cookies through GSNC’s annual Operation Cookie/Hometown Heroes Gift of Caring initiative. Girl Scouts from across Nassau County joined local leaders and volunteers to help send off a portion of the packages, which were loaded onto DHL Express trucks for global distribution. The initiative serves as a meaningful expression of appreciation for those who serve, including members of the military, healthcare professionals, law enforcement, EMTs, and firefighters.
“Operation Cookie continues to show our Girl Scouts that even the smallest gesture can have a lasting impact,” said Rande Bynum, CEO of GSNC. “Through this program, they’re learning what it means to give back, support their communities, and recognize the people who step up every day to serve others. We’re incredibly grateful to DHL Express and to everyone who has helped sustain this effort over the years. Every package of Girl Scout Cookies sent is a testament to what this community can accomplish when we work together.”
Since its launch in 2005 in partnership with DHL Express, the Operation Cookie/Hometown Heroes program has grown steadily each year, with more than 1,300,000 packages delivered to military personnel and first responders. In addition to supporting those serving overseas, the initiative provides Girl Scouts with a hands-on opportunity to understand the importance of community service and civic engagement. Over the years, packages have reached service members stationed around the globe, including in Afghanistan, Bahrain, Djibouti, Iraq, Kuwait, Japan, Germany, and Poland, as well as local recipients such as the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point and base in and local Coast Guard stations.
The Hometown Heroes program continues to expand its local impact by recognizing essential workers across Nassau County. This year’s distribution included hospitals, police departments, and a regional blood bank, ensuring that those working on the front lines close to home are also acknowledged for their service.
“Our U.S. military personnel are true heroes, making sacrifices every day to protect and support others, and Operation Cookie is a meaningful way to show our gratitude,” said Pawel Zagaja, Senior Director of JFK Gateway, DHL Express. “For more than 20 years, we’ve proudly leveraged our global network to deliver joy and a heartfelt piece of home to servicemembers stationed overseas, reminding them that their sacrifices are seen, valued, and appreciated.” Recipients will enjoy a variety of classic Girl Scout Cookie flavors, including Thin Mints, Trefoils, and Tagalongs.
There is still time for the community to support the Operation Cookie/Hometown Heroes Gift of Caring initiative. Girl Scouts across Nassau County will be selling cookies and accepting Gift of Caring donations through April 16. To purchase cookies or make a Gift of Caring donation directly through a Girl Scout, visit www.gsnc.org/cookies.
For more information about Operation Cookie and Hometown Heroes, visit www.gsnc.org/operationcookie.
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