Project "Support the Needs of Our Troops" Gets Rollin'

By Linda Fudala-Tucker

Hairstylist and military mom, Jan McHenry rallied the troops Monday with her talk before the United Methodist Women and residents who nearly filled the community center auditorium.

Talking about a community project called "Support the Needs of Our Troops," McHenry with Joyce Mormino demonstrated how to pack and ship items for troops in Iraq. Mormino's son, Robert is a best friend of Patrick McHenry, son of Jan McHenry.

Patrick McHenry is stationed in a remote area of Iraq, Camp Habbaniyah where he as a Major is second in command of 1,000 men and 40 women. Far away from any city or modern town, the troops depend on care packages for supplies such as razors, and other hygiene items, snacks and just about any small comfort of home including pillows.

Helen Kaiser, UMW president told the group that there are committees set up to do the packing and shipping, as well as shopping for the items, and that the greatest need is for funds. Each package costs $8.10 to mail. Sign up sheets were set out so people could volunteer to help in any capacity, but the need for funds is at the top of the list. The Boca Grande Woman's Club is also participating in the project, said Helen. "This is not only a project involving the churches, it is something for the whole community to participate in for the sake of those young people who are serving their country. It doesn't matter if you're for or against the war, it matters that we show the troops we appreciate them."

A steering committee headed by Larry Hannah, is placing posters and cannisters around town. (see poster on page 19). For those who would want to take children and grandchildren shopping for items (poster has list of items), as well as donate funds, an "Ingathering Sunday" is planned for Feb. 12 at the Methodist and St. Andrew's Episcopal church services, and Feb. 24 for Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church.

A table at the John Gambling Park will also be set up for several different days starting Jan. 31. Singer Lynda Jamison, who led "God Bless America" at the end of the alk, has offered all proceeds from the sale of her CD's to the cause as well.

Capt. Marcy Hopp, Air Force Reserve, shared how important those packages and sentiments mean to the troops. "You can't imagine how much those packages mean to troops overseas," she said.

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Helen Kaiser, president of the UMW this year, was inspired by Jan McHenry, a hairstylist at Courtyard hair, to launch the "Support the Needs of Our Troops" project.

Joyce Mormino and Jan McHenry demonstrate how to pack and ship boxes for overseas.

Jan McHenry speaks to UMW and interested residents Monday. She began sending packages to all the troops at Camp Habbaniyah, Iraq last January.

Larry Hannah told the group about fundraising activities planned for the project. He heads a steering committee for the project through his church, First United Methodist.

Lynda: Singer Lynda Jamison led a soulful rendition of "God Bless America" at the conclusion of the meeting.