In February, Tri-HI-Y started a project to send love to soldiers far from home. The group crafted care packages for military personnel with a wide variety of items included in each package. The group then collected names from the school community and sent six packages to places like Texas and South Carolina. On February 23, the members gathered and prepared to mail the packages. 

The main goal of this project was to show the soldiers that Tri-Hi-Y and Paoli High School remember their service to the country.

“People serving in the military help make it possible for the rest of us to go about our lives doing things that we enjoy and think are important. A care package is a small way to say that we appreciate what they are making possible for the rest of us,” said Tri-Hi-Y Sponsor Mariah Wishart.

The project depended on many people working together to make it a success. Officers met to organize everything from what to include in the care packages to determining who might know military personnel serving abroad.

“I think the project was fun but a little stressful, too. I hope it gives the soldiers a better time while away from home,” said Tri-Hi-Y President Kylie Flannery. 

The project is one that the group hopes to continue and Tri-Hi-Y will continue to accept donations to pack the boxes in future projects 

Most packages included nin-perishable snacks such as granola bars, chips, and flavored water packets. Tri-Hi-Y also included everyday practical items like socks, duct tape, and little notebooks. They also try to send some items for fun—Sudoku or crossword puzzles, frisbees, travel games and reading material. Flannery stated that they are always open to ideas for what to include in their next shipment.

If you have questions about the project, or want to donate to future projects, contact Wishart or Flannery.