Operation Care Package

By Tanjua Damon

Students at Reed Intermediate School want to show the soldiers who are serving in the Middle East that they care about them and support them in their missions. Fifth graders in Gina Swanson’s class have started a project entitled “Operation Care Package,” in hopes of encouraging people to drop off items that soldiers need while serving in the desert.

Students will be collecting items until April 25 before sending packages to 23 soldiers and one search and rescue dog, Aaron. Ms Swanson understands first hand what it is like to be in the military since she served in the Air Force.

The students are collecting items such as sun block, Wet Ones, eye drops, hand lotion, toothpaste, Chapstick, white socks, candy that does not melt, and any other toiletries. The dog needs booties for its feet since the desert sand is hot, and he needs toys like Congs.

In order to pay for the shipping of the packages, the fifth graders have created patriotic pins for which they are asking a $1 donation. The students also hope they will be able to solicit businesses or individuals to sponsor a package.

“We wanted to buy soldiers the necessary items they need,” Ms Swanson said. “I remember when I was in the Air Force and received letters and packages from my family and friends. It meant so much to me.”

Ms Swanson sees this project as a great lesson for her students to understand a sense of pride in their country as well as helping someone else.

“I want the students to gain a sense of pride in sending these packages,” Ms Swanson said. “I want them to feel that they are doing something good and showing their support of their country. It may be in a small way, but to a soldier overseas a package from someone who cares can mean everything.”

Ms Swanson explained that her students have enjoyed talking about what life the project is taking as well as about the daily lives of soldiers in Iraq and Kuwait. The students hope that the community will also want to get involved and donate items to send in the packages. Items can be dropped off at the main office of Reed Intermediate School until April 25.

For more information contact Gina Swanson at 270-4880 or swansong@newtown.k12.ct.us.