In support of the U.S. military stationed all over the world, the sisters of Gamma Kappa Pi are heading up a military care package drive for both soldiers and the Iraqi schools.

They have the names and addresses of several soldiers. In addition to writing letters to the soldiers, care packages containing various needed items will be mailed. The sisters of Gamma Kappa Pi would like to include organizations, schools, and other community members of Weakley County in this support of the United States military in Iraq.

For the Iraqi schools, possible donation examples include crayons, pencils, markers, colored pencils, rulers, pencil cases and composition note books.

Hygiene products are always needed: shampoo, soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes. Please note that shampoo, et cetera, must be shipped in a plastic bag to prevent leakage.

Popular items with younger children are small teddy bears. Additionally, letters to the children written by American children have proven to be rewarding for the Iraqis. This gives the children a personal connection with the people who are providing more for their education.

Teachers of the Iraqi schools are also in need of supplies to provide these children with a proper education. Likely items to donate would include chalk, posters and bulletin boards (anything including the alphabet, numbers, maps, history, science, etc.).

Soldiers have requested the basic hygiene items (baby wipes are a major hit). Small food items can also be shipped but please note: NO pork or alcohol products are allowed. Moreover, in shipping any items for soldiers, children, or teachers, NO pornography or religious items may be sent.

The sisters of Gamma Kappa Pi will be conducting this drive on a regular basis during the fall semester. To donate items for this drive, please contact Scarlett Wells at (731) 514-4241 or (731) 587-2148 or Candi Karas at (513) 543-2058.