Mission Viejo Calls For Residents To 'Adopt-A-Marine'

MISSION VIEJO, CA — The City of Mission Viejo announced a call-out Tuesday for residents to encourage them to participate in the city's Adopt-A-Marine Program, a program in which residents can provide not just financial support to the men and woman who fight for our freedom — but overall wellness support.

According to the city, more than 1,200 Marines and Sailors are supported every year thanks to the program. The program is coordinated by the City of Mission Viejo, Marine Adoption Committee and Mission Viejo Community Foundation, and funded by annual donations made by the community.

The program provides the following services to adopted Marines and Sailors of the Headquarters Battalion, 1st Marine Division from Camp Pendleton:

• Weekly care packages if deployed.
• Subsidized cost for an entry-level Marine to attend the annual Marine Corps Ball.
• Emergency monetary or supply assistance to Marines and their families as needed.
• Toys distributed to children during the holidays.
• Baskets filled with necessities for newborns and expectant families.
• A Thanksgiving meal for the Marine and his or her family.
• Participation in the annual “Day at Lake Mission Viejo” event, which includes lake activities, a barbecue, games, music and more.

Donations can be made online at the Mission Viejo Community Foundation's website. Checks made payable to Mission Viejo Community Foundation can be mailed to MVCF at 200 Civic Center, Mission Viejo, CA 92691. When donating, indicate “Adopt a Marine.”