I Want To Help Japan

I hate disasters. I don't watch TV or the news much. Hours and hours of trauma traumatize me. Facts like "they have run out of body bags" make me want to cry.

Suggestions from a Mom currently in Japan:

• Donate money to LDS Philanthropies 
• Donate to the Red Cross.  
• Donate to Operation Backpack.  

You can put together a backpack of goodies for a Japanese child and send it to the Misawa Girl Scouts for distribution.  I believe this idea originated at a different American base in Japan but was adopted by our Girl Scout Troop here.

This is a great project for kids to help with.  Here is some of the information:

We will be collecting packs and items until 15 May 2011.

Example of items for a backpack could include:

• paper, pen, crayons
• coloring books
• flashlights w/ batteries
• stuffed animals
• playing cards
• comics
• tissue
• non-perishable snacks
• new or gently used backpacks
• games
• hats
• small blankets
• toothpaste/brush
• lotion
• chapstick
• hairbrush/comb

Please no clothes and provide extra batteries for electronic items.

Please indicate whether your backpack is for a girl, boy, or either sex.  
Also indicate the general age.
The backpacks can be a clean, used backpack or a new one.

Items can be mailed to:

Misawa Girl Scouts

Unit 5027 

APO, AP  96319

Questions can be sent to:
JPayne.GirlScouts@gmail.com
Click here for the COMPLETE details!  :)

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If this idea doesn't appeal to you, consider holding an auction or fund raiser and donating the money.  I know it's not the same as giving a coat or blanket directly to someone in need, but it amounts to the same thing!

I know its not much, you want to pour your heart out. But it's something, and getting kids involved, giving them opportunities to act in a selfless manner, with love and concern for strangers is big. Just thought I'd share.