By Mark Abromaitis
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

A small suggestion turned into hundreds of pounds of supplies for the children of Iraq.

Inspired by the suggestion of a soldier stationed in Iraq, whose father is employed by Charlestown, an Erickson retirement community in Baltimore, Md., Iraqi Hope began as a charitable drive to assist children in war-torn sections of the country.

A united front
Joe Neault, director of general services at Charlestown, whose son, Chief Petty Officer Joseph Neault, Jr., serves in Iraq, suggested that the community band together to assist the children and honor military personnel. The idea took off.

“My son has often been asked how we can make a difference at home,” Neault says. “Those stationed in Iraq are keenly aware of the humanitarian  perspective, and they requested that we  collect the basic necessitiesfor children impacted by the conflict. My son let me know it would make a huge difference.”

American spirit in action
Throughout the fall months, residents and employees of Charlestown and Erickson’s corporate offices, including The Erickson Tribune staff, collected  items for children in Iraq. The donations ranged from daily necessities—toiletries and clothes—to recreational goods such as toys and games.

“We are not only proud of the service and sacrifice of our military but also of their desire to demonstrate the kindness and generosity of the American spirit,” says Garret Falcone, executive director of Charlestown. “We all know employees and family members who have served or are actively serving in the military, so this cause really hits home for us.”

“All told, we expect more than 1,000 pounds of materials to be delivered to  Iraq, all through the generosity of the residents and employees of Charlestown,” Neault says. “The support has been humbling; most people want to know what else they can do to help.”