Deployment boxes offer long-distance love, support

Catriona Murray of Boxed Arrangements.

Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~

A Victoria entrepreneur has launched a new product line for military families wanting to send a care package to a loved one deployed on a Canadian warship.

Catriona Murray runs Boxed Arrangements, a small gift giving company that mails boxes brimming with thoughtfully chosen treats.

She introduced her newest product, Deployment Boxes, to the military community at the MARPAC Health and Wellness Expo on Feb. 21.

“It’s all about showing you care and giving sailors something to look forward to when they are away from home,” she said.

Box contents vary and can include snacks, chocolates, bonbons, magazines, crosswords, nuts, protein bars, shampoo, soap, lotion and a post card with a personal message. The packaging is simple and recyclable.

The deployment box cost is $60 and can be designed specifically for a male or female sailor. Murray will also donate a portion of her revenue from the Deployment Box sales to the Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC), and through an arrangement with them the postage is waived.

Deployed members sending a gift box to their loved ones at home can receive a 10 per cent discount through a discount code. Local delivery within Victoria, B.C. is free; outside Victoria regular shipping charges apply.

She knows the importance of staying connected while deployed; her father, John Brens was a cook in the army and her husband’s father was a member of the Royal Canadian Air Force.

To order a box go to www.boxedarrangements.com