Bret Liberatore and his unit of 32 from Maryland, have "adopted" an orphanage with 250 boys 4-18 years old and are seeking clothing, food, educational (including books to help them learn English) and school supplies for the boys.  The soldiers are asking nothing for themselves, only the children.  See his post as of May 10 if you wish to support their effort.  Remember, after July 4, many stores like WalMart offer killer deals on school supplies....a great time to stock up!

If anyone is interested in an update on his humanitarian efforts, I received a great email plus lots of photos.  Just drop me an email & I will forward.  I will also see if I can get Marty to post it as an update for him.  By the way, in addition to the 250 boys they are suppoting at the orphanage, there are 150 girls.

Deb

I was in the local Dollar Tree yesterday , 6/28, and they had scads of school supplies in already.  The school supply section was open and ready for business with notebooks, packs of pens, pencils (lead and color), erasers, and all kinds of teacher's supplies right by the door and a second section in stationery.

Ann

Saturday, I picked up 7 heavy sweaters and 2 pair of boots (adult)--plus other stuff-- all in good to great shape out of my local thrift store's giveaway bin (FREE!).  It is not the time of year (95 degrees!) when people are thinking about buying sweaters, coats, and boots, so a time for great values for the coming winter.  One pair of boots was amazing.  It looked really bad and as if it had already been in the Afghan desert for 40 years.  After a good cleaning with saddle soap, it was gorgeous, soft, brown leather!  And when I checked on the internet, the same brand was selling for $250 new!  Granted mine had been worn and had some dings and some minor cracking since no care had been given before.  But I would wear them proudly if I were a hiking boot sort of person.  Even the laces were in good condition.  All in all, if they are taken care of they will probably last 5 or 10 years!  I am sooooo stoked!

I would like an update and photos please.

Also, do they accept monetary donations or just supplies?

For anyone who may be interested in learning more about Bret's mission please go to the "Humanitarian" and then the "Orphanage in Afghanistan" thread below.  Bret was reassigned out of this area and SFC Mike Rush continued with the mission for supporting the kids at the orphanage.  You can check out the thread below to to find the current status.  We anticipate Mike's reassignment in the next few months and hope to have someone else to continue with the mission.  Check out the thread and also his posts and photos on the "Where to Send" section.  Your interest and support are greatly appreciated.  Wishing you untold blessings in your time and efforts here with AnySoldier.  Thank you for your consideration of this wonderful opportunity to provide support for the children.

DEbbie