The city of Monrovia, California (37,000), provides a range of support services to families of armed forces members serving overseas. A support network for families draws 30–40 people at its twice-monthly meetings under the leadership of a family member. Local businesses contribute items for care packages that are sent to overseas service members, along with a letter from the city council thanking the troops for their service and inviting them to return to Monrovia when their service ends. Families receive a blue-star placard to display in a window. The names and service branches of local troops are displayed on banners hanging over a major thoroughfare. Classes in local elementary schools also “adopt” a local service member, sending that individual letters once a month. The program costs approximately $5,000 a year, and receives support from local service clubs and businesses. Tina Wells Senior Administrative Clerk Community Services Division Monrovia Community Center 119 West Palm Avenue Monrovia, CA 91016 Phone: 626/256-8246 Fax: 626/256-8243 E-mail: twells@ci.monrovia.ca.us