West High, Franklin Middle Schools Wrap Up Iraqi Collection Effort

GREEN BAY, Wis. (WTAQ) - For the past two weeks, two Green Bay schools have put on an effort that helps not only our troops in Iraq, but also children over there. It's called "Operation Back to School."

Donations will be accepted through the end of the day at West High School and Franklin Middle School. They're looking for toiletries , snacks, and books for the troops and school supplies for kids in Iraq.

"All of a sudden everyone said 'Yeah, I've been wanting to do that' or 'I wanted to do something for the troops' and we just gave them the opportunity," West teacher Kay Huxford said.

She calls the program "a huge success" and wants to turn it into a regular event.

"There are always going to be troops overseas," she said. "There's always going to be troops that are away from home for the holidays and we want to make sure that they know they are in our thoughts and we want them back home safely."

After today, the charity doesn't end. Huxford says her school will be involved in a program to help another group.

"It's called our Change for Homeless and we collect money throughout West High School and Franklin Middle School and all of that money goes to homeless students and families right here in the Green Bay School District," Huxford said.

Donations for Operation Back to School can be dropped off at either West High School, 966 Shawano Ave., Green Bay or Franklin Middle School, 1234 W. Mason St., Green Bay.

Items that are being collected for the troops: shampoo, deodorant, lip balm, sunscreen, vitamins, lotions, gum, mouth wash, tissue packets and white or green socks. Entertainment items are being requested as well, such as DVDs, current magazines, paperback books, word/number games, crossword puzzles and playing cards.

Items that are being collected for the Iraqi school children: notebooks, colored pencils (not crayons), plain folders with pockets, loose leaf paper, safety scissors, rulers, pencil sharpeners, large erasers, pencil pouches and pencils.

It is asked that all donations be free of printed political or religious messages.