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Packages From Home

photo by Mike Cameron

Tuesday February 3, 2009

By Mike Cameron

   On Thursday, January 29, 2009, the entire student body at Saint Mary’s
Catholic Grammar School in Middlebury held an assembly to package the many
donated items that military personnel serving overseas will be glad to receive.
These shipping containers were filled to the brim with dozens of items, everything
from toothpaste to batteries and many other useful everyday items .

   This special “Care Package Project,” was organized and coordinated by 6th
Grade teacher Michelle Eagan. Many of the items collected from the children
at all grade levels will be sent to personnel serving in Afghanistan. “It’s part of
Catholic School’s Week, a national theme celebrating service,” Eagan explained.
Pictured above Kindergarten teacher Nikki Juvan helps students with their
contributions. After bringing up their gifts by class, the students were asked
why they were doing this project. Many raised their hands and a number of
answers were given. “Because it will make the soldiers happy,” one student said.
“We want to thank them for protecting us,” another explained. Another child
said in a soft voice, “Because we love them.”

   All military serving abroad appreciate being remembered by the students and
teachers. our soldiers serving overseas are extremely grateful for the many
efforts of the students, faculty, and loved ones at home. Students also included
personal hand crafted cards and notes personally directed to the troops.
Saint Mary’s will be delivering the package containers to the Freedom Fund
based in Burlington for eventual shipment overseas.

   Some of the students at Saint Mary’s know first hand about the experience of
having a parent serving in the armed forces overseas. The enthusiasm for the
project was evident and it promises to be a big hit with our soldiers.

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