In response to the Iraq War's affect on the education of that nation's youth, Operation Iraqi Children was founded as a grass-roots program in 2004 by concerned Americans. Four years later, the need for school supplies has only become more critical as the burden of rebuilding the country must fall on the next generation. During the International Festival, our booth collected cash donations which will cover the shipping of the donated supplies to the initial distribution center in Kansas City.

We also collected additional funds from a "Shed your Threads" day as well as the race off between Ms. Kemenes and Mr. Chapman in a display of their school spirit. A recent school event, our drive lasted two weeks and every class in Palmer contributed to the effort, which resulted in one hundred kits being assembled. This is the number of children who will continue their education with vital items like pencils, notebooks, rulers, erasers, scissors, colored pencils, and more. After shipping to Iraq, the financial distribution to the schools is done by U.S. military personnel. The good will generated by this aid is invaluable. The Palmer Trinity community has been called to action and we have shown our commitment through our contribution to Operation Iraqi Children. Palmer Trinity cares!