What is a HUG?
A HUG is a cooling tie that will keep a serviceperson cool for hours in the blistering heat of the Middle Eastern desert. It is made of sand-colored cotton (for camouflage) and filled with polymer crystals, which absorb moisture and swell when immersed in cold water. Our troops love tying a cold HUG around their necks before embarking on a mission in desert heats that can exceed 130-degrees!
Since 2006, our dedicated volunteers in Elkhart, Indiana have sent over 4,300 HUG cooling ties and hundreds of soldier care packages to U.S. service members serving in the Middle East. Every package is packed with love — hygiene items, snacks, and a little piece of home to remind our deployed troops that America hasn't forgotten them.
YTD Totals through December 2025
Our numbers show our commitment to our wonderful troops!
Thank you to all who contributed and blessed us in 2024.
Our Troops Say
The Hugs Project,
My guys received your packages, and I just wanted to reach out and say, Thank You! You brought such a bright smile to their face and they’re beyond appreciative.
Again, Thank you and I hope you have a wonderful holiday season.
Very Respectfully, AD1 Rivera, HSM-70.3 LPO — October 4, 2025
Support Our Deployed Troops
Every $50 ships a complete care package for soldiers deployed in the Middle East — HUG cooling ties, hygiene items, snacks, and a piece of home. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, your gift may be tax-deductible.
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