Boise Local 650, the American Postal Workers union, is working on a good cause and asking for the public’s help.

The group is collecting backpacks filled with much-needed items to be given out to homeless Idaho veterans in time for Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11.

People who would like to help have a couple options — filling an entire pack, or giving items separately for volunteers to combine into packs later.

Project organizers estimate it will cost about $125 to fill a pack, which may make it a good project for a group of people to do together.

The deadline to submit a complete pack is Nov. 8 at any post office, said Bryan Thompson, APWU president. The deadline to submit separate items is Nov. 5.

If you’re building a full pack, here’s what should be inside: Flashlight with change of batteries, BIC lighter, first-aid kit (band-aids and ointment), thermos, one set of utensils (not plastic), can opener, quart size zip-lock baggies, antibacterial no-rinse soap, disposable razors, toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash (alcohol-free), shampoo, hairbrush, baby wipes, roll of toilet paper, pen and small pad of paper, instant heat packs, hooded rain poncho, emergency blanket (the kind that folds up, found at sporting goods or automotive stores), one pair of warm socks, one ski cap or ski mask, one scarf, one pair of insulated gloves, ready-to-eat items, e.g. peanut butter, energy or breakfast bars, fig newtons, instant beverages, soup, single, ready-to-serve canned goods, cereal packs, lunch and snack packs.

Notes: All items must be new, except for the backpacks themselves. All food and hygiene items must be in manufacturer-sealed packages. Travel-sized toiletries are ideal.

Money donations are also welcome. Send checks to the APWU, 7512 W. Lemhi St. #2, Boise, ID 83709. Call Bryan Thompson, APWU president, Boise Local at (650) 869-9927 for more.

LIONS CRAFT FAIR TO BENEFIT PROGRAMS

The Boise Capital Lions host their Second Annual Lions Craft Fair, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 2 and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 3 at the Central Assembly Church, 12000 Fairview Ave. in Boise.

The Lions Mobile Screening Unit will be on site both days for free hearing and vision screenings for all ages.

All proceeds from the craft fair will support the club’s projects, including the Ronald McDonald House, high school scholarships and the Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation. Call Nancy Berto for more: 863-0088.

REMEMBER THE TROOPS DURING THE HOLIDAYS

Last year, KC’s Bookkeeping and Tax Service partnered with Treasure Valley Blue Star Mothers of America, Boise Valley POW/MIA and the Idaho Patriot Guard Riders to collect non-perishable and cash donations for care packages to send to troops overseas. The effort was such a success, organizers are doing it again.

This year’s drive will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 3 at the office, 6630 W. Overland Road in Boise. See a list of suggested donation items online (link at idahostatesman.com), or call 906-1499.

RICHARD PAUL EVANS APPEARANCE TO BENEFIT WCA

Thanks to the efforts of Laura and Bruce Delaney at Rediscovered Books, writer Richard Paul Evans will make a Boise stop during his national tour. His appearance, 7 p.m., Nov. 7 at the Egyptian Theatre, is a benefit for the Women’s and Children’s Alliance.

Evans will talk about his new book, “Winter Dream,” a modern retelling of the Old Testament story of Joseph and the coat of many colors, as well as his bestseller “The Christmas Box,” now marking its 20th anniversary.

Tickets to see Evans are $5, available online (link to Rediscovered Books online at idahostatesman.com) or at the shop, 180 N. 8th St. in Boise. If you buy one of his books ahead of time at Rediscovered Books, you’ll get a free ticket to the Egyptian event.

QUICK REMINDERS:

Æ Going to the Boise State-San Diego State game on Saturday? Bring along a couple cans of food to donate for “Fans with Cans,” the fifth annual Hunger Bowl. Find donation bins at all stadium entrances. Volunteers will also accept donations at the Bronco shuttle stops in Downtown Boise and outside the two main parking garages on campus.

Donations will benefit The Idaho Foodbank, The Salvation Army and the Boise Rescue Mission.

Æ Girl Scouts of Silver Sage hosts its 22nd annual Women of Today and Tomorrow luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Boise Centre, Thursday, Nov. 1.

Tickets are $50, tables of 10 are $500. Register online. Find a link at idahostatesman.com. Proceeds from the lunch will support programs and operations of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience for girls throughout Southern Idaho and nearby states.

Anna Webb: 377-6431