The Miller-Driscoll PTA is spearheading two community service programs, involving the school’s students in collection drives for soldiers and needy children.

Project from the Heart–for Soliders

In honor of the upcoming Memorial Day holiday, the Miller-Driscoll PTA has partnered with Project from the Heart to collect food and personal care items for US soldiers stationed overseas. Project from the Heart is a group of retired police wives and other concerned Connecticut citizens who package and mail “We Care” boxes to American armed forces in Afghanistan. Over 10,000 boxes have been mailed since the project began in 2002. A donation of one or more of the following items below is most appreciated.

Beef Jerky
Slim Jims
Sunflower seeds
Tuna with crackers
Crackers/cookies
Canned meats
Canned frank & beans
Canned fruit
Peanut Butter
Jelly
Oatmeal
Hot chocolate
Coffee
Protein bars
Gum
Candy
Drink mixes
Toothpaste
Toothbrushes
Dental floss
Mouthwash
Liquid soap
Body wash
Body lotion
Chapstick
Multi-vitamins
Shaving creamHand/foot warmers
Gold Bond Powder
Antibacterial wipes
Hand sanitizers
Stick deodorant
Bathroom tissue
Q-tips
Feminine products
Razors & refills
Shampoo
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Pens
Writing paper
Envelopes
Packing tape
Phone cards

Organizers ask that items be in plastic containers and not too large to mail.

In addition to the above items, the soldiers would also love to receive letters from our Miller-Driscoll students. If your child would like to send a letter, please include their name, grade and a special Memorial Day wish. There will be collection bins in school for all items beginning May 5 through May 23.

Crutches for Kids

Miller-Driscoll is also taking part in a drive to collect gently used crutches.

Crutches 4 Kids (C4K) is a non-profit organization based in New York City that serves children with disabilities living in impoverished communities all over the world. C4K collects gently used crutches from local communities and works with international aid organizations to redistribute them to areas in need.

To date, more than 7,000 mobility aids were collected from NY, CT and NJ and distributed to over two-dozen countries including Guatemala, Haiti, Ghana and the Philippines. However, it’s relative in comparison to the tens of millions of children who are still in need of crutches.

Recycle your gently used crutches. It’s another great opportunity to discuss the importance of giving to children and how they can make a difference in the lives of others.

All crutch sizes are welcome. Collection bins will be placed in the Miller-Driscoll main office from May 5-16.