The family of Marc Fogel is requesting Christmas cards as Fogel remains in a Russian prison.
His sister Anne Fogel is organizing the effort. She says she wants to let him know they are still fighting.
"This is extremely hard for Marc," she said. "Being away from his family. Feeling that he's been let down by his government. We, our family, are trying to raise awareness that he's still there and to let him know that he's not forgotten."
Marc Fogel was arrested in 2021 for possession of medical marijuana. He is currently serving a 14-year sentence in a hard labor colony.
His family has begged the Biden Administration to designate him as wrongfully detained. Despite backing from lawmakers, the effort has yet to be successful.
"It's the same as it has been. Unmoving, totally dark. The decision is a lack of decision."
Mail all cards to:
American Citizen Services/ MHF
Consular Services
5430 Moscow Place
Department of State
Washington, DC 20521-5430
Anne Fogel asks senders not to put Marc Fogel's name on the outside of the envelope. All mail sent will be opened prior to reaching her brother.
She knows most cards likely won't make it by Christmas, but believes it's the message that counts.
"We want him to know and feel that he's loved," she said. "No one is forgetting him. I want to remind the State Department, our government that people are not forgetting him. He matters."