Care packages: A powerful message of positivity

Chewing gum, candy and cereal. What do these treats have in common? They were all part of the very first care package distributed in 1946 to World War II refugees. Fast forward 70 years — similar items are being sent to college students right here at UW-Green Bay.

Care packages could be just the thing to get students past their mid-semester blues. In fact, nearly 70% of students experience a mid-semester letdown, according to a study published in the Journal of Qualitative Research Reports in Communication. Research done over the past decade found that students with involved parents are more likely to excel academically and adapt well to school. With thousands of care packages coming through UW-Green Bay’s mailroom each year, it is safe to presume that UWGB parents care.

More than 4,000 miles separate UW-Green Bay student Jule-Sophie Hermann and her hometown of Berlin, Germany. She says that care packages boost her spirits and keep her emotionally connected. Family members send her care packages numerous times throughout the school year; her favorite is the one that she routinely receives around Thanksgiving time.

“Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate family,” said Hermann. “It’s hard being so far away from them. The care package really helps me feel connected to them during the holiday. It lifts my spirits and keeps me going.”

One of her favorites items is German chocolate, which she can’t get here in the states. She also receives a few practical items that she may need, and usually a little surprise from her mom. “She got me a stuffed animal last time,” said Hermann. The gesture is a reminder of the love and support they provide for her.

Of the approximately 26,000 packages that are processed by the mailroom each year, thousands are care packages delivered to UW-Green Bay students. They are typically delivered around big events such as move-in, mid-terms and finals according to University Services Program Associate, Kelly Steffes. She said female students receive more care packages as well; however, this could be reflective of the higher female resident population at UWGB.

The concept of the care package has stood the test of time. That’s because the invisible message within the package hasn’t changed. It offers a little “hang in there” spirit to the homesick, and contains love wrapped up with every item.

Story and art direction by Amy Bauer and edited by Kelsie Vieaux, Marketing and University Communication interns.

Photography by campus photographer, Dan Moore.