Gilmanton School continues 20-year tradition of sending care packages to service members

GILMANTON — A 20-year effort to remember late Army Pfc. Nicholas R. Cournoyer, of Gilmanton, continues this year at Gilmanton School, as students in sixth grade collect non-perishable food for active service members from the community at-large.

Donations are accepted until Friday, Dec. 11, at Gilmanton School.

“Kim Massa, a former Gilmanton teacher, started this fundraiser about 20 years ago, in part to honor Gilmanton's Nick Cournoyer, who lost his life while serving in Iraq that year, and to remind local service members that they are remembered and appreciated,” said Christine Johnson, sixth grade educator at Gilmanton School. “We thought sending care packages around the holidays would be a nice way to let [active military members] know we're thinking of them, and are thankful for what they do.”

According to The Military Times, Cournoyer died May 18, 2006, at age 25, during Operation Iraqi Freedom, after an improvised explosive device detonated near his Humvee during combat operations in Baghdad.

The fundraiser helps keep his memory alive, as well as educate younger generations on the value of the nation’s veterans.

“I think it's important for our students to understand that the people serving our country aren't just people they read about in books or see on TV. They're people from our own area. We want our students to recognize the sacrifices these men and women make, and understand that even a small gesture can make a difference,” Johnson said. “It's also a great way to show our service members that the people back home haven't forgotten about them.”

Students are collecting both non-perishable food items and toiletries to assemble care packages. Homemade cards and notes penned by students will add a special touch.

“Our sixth graders will be making cards and writing letters to include in the packages. It's a great opportunity for them to think about what it means to serve our country, and to show their appreciation in their own words,” Johnson said. “Sometimes, something as simple as a handwritten note can mean a lot to someone who is away from home.”

Non-perishable food items accepted include beef jerky, small cereal boxes, fruit snacks, ramen, instant mashed potatoes and applesauce. Hygiene products needed include deodorant, sunscreen, lip balm, toothpaste, face wash and hair gel. No liquid beverages will be accepted.

For a full list of suggested donation options, visit the Gilmanton School’s Facebook page at facebook.com/61565931072628.

Staff at Gilmanton School hope the community will come forward with donations.

“In past years, we've noticed that donations tend to pick up after Veterans Day, so we're hoping that happens again this year,” Johnson said. “Donations can be dropped off right at the Gilmanton School through Friday, Dec. 11. We'd love to have the community help us fill these packages.”

For more information, visit gilmanton.sau79.org or call 603-267-0604.