The Hugs Project of Elkhart County is collecting drink mixes, toiletries and other items for placement in care packages to be sent to U.S. troops serving in Afghanistan.

Donations may be made in boxes placed outside all seven Martin’s Super Market locations in Elkhart County, according to Sondra Resen, a local volunteer in the effort. The Hugs Project is collecting items through March 31 and the boxes at the Martin’s locations spell out what’s needed.

“Our care packages are more important and more needed than ever,” Nancy Mast, president of the Hugs Project here, said in a statement. “We need help collecting toiletry items in small sizes, and snack and breakfast items.”