It’s back to school time, which means many parents are dropping their kids off at college, often for the first time. While campuses are buzzing with excitement, the reality is that over time, it can get lonely on campus away from home.
Angela Howard remembers how her youngest son James struggled while being away.
“There were many phone calls where he was very discouraged and didn’t think he wanted to do it. And my husband had to let him know ‘you can hang in there, you can do it,’” Angela explains.
To encourage her son, Angela would put together care packages for him, with all his favorite things. She did the same for her older son Marlon, while he was away at Tennessee State.
“It meant a lot to me because of the personal factor it,” Marlon says.
So a couple years ago, Angela, who also works full-time in nursing, saw a business opportunity. She could help other busy parents encourage their kids.
“And you know they may not have time to gather up items or get to the post office so I said that’s something I can do.”
Her company is called LOL Packages… That’s lots of love, not laugh out loud!
The boxes come in two sizes, and range in price from $15 up to $45. She offers different varieties like Strictly Sweets, with lots of sugary treats. There's Hang in There, with everything from granola bars to candy to oatmeal... and then the Healthy Start care package focuses on healthier items. She also customizes packages for your student or loved one's individual likes.
To date, Angela has sent out more than 400 care packages to college students. She’s had the opportunity to set up a booth on registration day on some Michigan campuses.
“My ultimate goal is to be known nationwide on every campus and just so that the kids can stay attached to their families,” Angela says.
Angela also sends her LOL Care Packages to military members serving around the world.
