Alpha Sigma Alpha collects food, toiletries for U.S. troops
Over the last four weeks, Alpha Sigma Alpha (ASA) has been collecting various snack food items and toiletries to send to a platoon of United States troops serving in Iraq.
“It’s great to give [back] to people, and especially since they are doing something for your country,” ASA philanthropy chair and junior Kim Palmerton said. “It’s nice to let them know that you’re thinking of them, and that you care for them and that you appreciate what they’re doing for you.”
The project was started by junior Keri Ketring after she learned that a childhood friend of hers, Private First Class Phillip Preckler, was heading to Iraq with the Army. She mentioned it to her sorority sisters and together they came up with the idea of sending useful items that Preckler and his fellow platoon members would appreciate having. After gathering the items they needed and the money required for shipping costs, ASA now has a big care package ready to be sent.
Items collected include toothpaste, deodorant, disposable razors, snack foods such as candy and individual sized bags of chips and other various items.
Since Preckler is currently home on leave, the care package will be sent within the next week so it will arrive after he has returned to Iraq.
“People like my friend Phil give up the security of being at home, and the ability to spend time with their families and loved ones to go overseas and risk their lives on behalf of their country,” said Ketring. “Sending them some snacks and toiletries is the very least we can do to show our appreciation.”
While ASA is not locally or nationally affiliated with the U.S. Army, the organization recognizes the sacrifices made by military personnel in order to ensure the nation’s safety and is glad to show support for them.
“I think it’s incredibly helpful, and we all appreciate the effort,” said PFC Preckler. “It’s nice to know that people at home are thinking about us. We appreciate the support.”