The Veterans of Foreign Wars aims to serve veterans, while also looking out for active members of the military. On Long Beach Island, at local VFW Post 3729, members and supporters have begun a tradition of erecting a “Heroes Tree” that connects to a toiletry drive to benefit U.S. soldiers overseas.

Fran Sweeney, a supporter of the VFW, said the community can fill a gallon-size Ziplock bag with new, unused travel-size toiletries to drop off at VFW Post 3729 – at 11 East Winifred St.