Service members stationed overseas always appreciate a little treat from home. Thanks to a local business, troops are being treated to a taste from Washington: salmon.

This is not just some salmon. In fact, it is lots of salmon.

Made in Washington Stores specialize in all things Washington State. Gourmet foods, wines, coffees, teas, books, and gifts crafted by local artists are just some of the many items available to purchase.  They are also known for their beautiful, Washington inspired custom gift baskets.

In 2011, the team at Made in Washington wanted to do something for special and impactful for military families.  In discussions, team members noted how often SeaBear smoked salmon was sent to folks stationed overseas as a reminder of home. Soon, an idea was born that was open to customers, employees, vendors, and others to really treat our troops.

The Treat the Troops Smoked Salmon 100% Match program came into effect. Now in its second year, the company will be sending cases of tasty smoked salmon to Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard stationed overseas. SeaBear-Ready-To-Eat pouches were a good choice as they were individual serving sizes and easily sharable.

You can help too.

The way the program works is simple. The store is filling up boxes with 60 pouches of SeaBear Ready-To-Eat Smoked Salmon to ship to a military unit overseas.  If a customer purchases a salmon pouch to donate priced at $6.99 per pouch, the company will match it 100% by adding another pouch. Want to donate more than one?  They will match that number 100%. Once those boxes fill to 60 pouches, more boxes will be started for another unit.

It gets better. Customers can actually nominate a military group to receive the salmon, especially units with Washington State ties. Nominate a group or unit at any store or by emailing the customer service team (use the subject line Treat The Troops).  Provide the name and service of the military unit, where they are stationed, their address, and the specific person to send it to.

Visit Made in Washington Stores online at www.madeinwashington.com  Treat the Troops section  for details or call them at (800) 338-9903. Made in Washington retail stores have six convenient locations. Please see their website for specific locations, hours, and directions.