MOPS chapter collects items for troops

Members of the Jackson Chapter of Mothers of Preschoolers International recently donated more than 100 pounds of personal care items, playing cards, games, magazines, books and snacks for service men and women stationed in Iraq.

"One of our members has a sister serving in a civilian capacity in Iraq. She had mentioned how these soldiers sacrifice so much for our freedom, including the everyday items that we take for granted. We decided that we wanted to help make the day a little brighter for some of these troops," said Carrie Bartholomew, publicity director.

The group advertised the drive in the monthly newsletter and conducted a contest for members. Five winners were awarded gift baskets filled with items donated by the Missouri National Guard.

MOPS International is a group dedicated to encouraging, equipping and developing every mother of a preschooler and helping her reach her full potential. Local groups allow mothers of all backgrounds to build friendships, share advice and receive mentoring.

Currently, MOPS International is chartered in more than 4,000 churches, ministries and not-for-profit organizations. The organization consists of more than 11,000 members in the United States and 29 other countries. Call First Presbyterian Church at 243-4265 for more information. The group meets every third Thursday during the school year and occasionally in the summer.