Every commercial on tv is an advertisment for some thing to purchase. The news shows images of crowded malls and people bull dozing others at 4 am to be the first to get some thing.
Let's make a change -get back to the basics -give to those who don't have. I thought about sending a gift package to the soldiers who will be so far from home during this special time. That would be a great way to give! My mother actually told me about an article she saw. What she told me was rather shocking.
Some troops had posted a wishlist. The encredible thing is they weren't asking for much stuff for themselves. What they really wanted were childrens shoes, warm clothes for children of all ages, toys and school supplies as well as personal hygeine products. The power of human compassion is amazing and I knew Christmas had always been here. It's a choice to make.
I did some more research.
The tears fell and it consumed me. I had no idea it got so cold there. I couldn't believe how young and helpless they are. While my son lays warm in his bed, his belly full from dinner, his blanket soft against his face, I imagine a mother who loves as much as I love and it breaks my heart. I had to help. I have to do SOMETHING!
The Truth
http://www.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/meast/11/09/iraq.children/#cnnSTCVideo
Over 1.6 Million children have become homeless in Iraq.
They are searching dumps and trash for food or clothing.
They do not have shoes and suffer lacerations on their feet.
They go to sleep hungry and cold because they do not have food or clothing.
The Bright Side http://www.defendamerica.mil/articles/Nov2006/a110306dg2.html
Our fathers, brothers, sisters, and friends are over there to help.
They, like us, have compassion and the means to infiltrate devastated areas.
They have the ability to communicate with those whom can help
WE CAN HELP.
Things We Can Do.
Send womens and childrens/baby clothes of all sizes, small toys, shoes, school supplies (crayons, paper, blunt edge scissors, etc.) and personal hygiene products (sample size shampoo, toothpaste) as well as small plush toys to the following address or email me for directions to a local drop off. Please don't buy new clothing. They need warmth not style. Your money goes a lot futher if you purchase from a Goodwill Store or the Salvation Army and that money in turn gets used to help the needy. I, myself, can find plenty around the house that I don't need and will be well appreciated by someone who desperately needs. I am also collecting some stuff for the troops as well -baby wipes, cards, games, puzzles, magazines, pens, paper, picture frames, etc.
If you choose to send yourself, there is a bulk rate priority option at the post office which will save you money. It's a special military deal and I believe it's $8 flat rate and you can fill the box. (includes shoe sized box)
Send to the US Army Corp of Engineers in Iraq who will distribute to those in need. Please only send items for the children to this address. Email me for addresses of soldiers accepting donations for troops. Thanks, Erin emoshier04@hotmail.com
Mike Fellenz
USACE GRS
APO AE 09331
Yes, this is the right address. There are no missing lines. The package will be received in a small town in Southern Iraq and will be distributed around those areas.
