More Than Pencils and Toothbrushes

His Majesty King Adbulla II recognizes that children who have been subjected to deprivation, violence and ignorance are the most susceptible to falling prey to extremism, terrorism and racism.  He feels that education can plan a vital role in preventing Syrian and Jordanian children from engaging in negative acts of extremism on society now and when they grow older.  In a region that suffers from political turmoil this emphasis is especially critical in order to achieve peace and prosperity for its citizens and their future.

Because of our excellent relationship with the General Union of Volunatary Societies and others in Jordan, LDS Charities has been asked to be a principal player in the project and to furnish school kits, hygiene kits and health education for 100,000 students.  The materials will go to Syrian refugee students, needy Jordanian students and students with special needs.  This means significant publicity and recognition for LDSC.  The desired launch date of the project, including a press conference is January 30, the king's birthday.

We have spent a lot of time this past week writing a proposal for the project to go to Salt Lake for approval. We are very excited about the project for the following reasons:

1. The project is much more than pencils, paper and toothbrushes.  It is a project of hope and self-esteem.  When a child has a backpack with materials to help improve his or her mind and body he has less tendency to think about negative things and focus on bettering himself.

2.  Student volunteers will be used to process and package the donated items in the kits.  Volunteer specialists will work with the students and help develop the spirit of volunteerism and the desire to do good for others.

3.  Sessions will be held to teach students personal hygiene care and its importance.  They will also be taught how to use the materials for cleaning teeth, washing hands, etc.

This project is very large.  The launch ceremony will be under the direction of Queen Rania and a representative of LDSC will be one of the speakers along with some very high level government officials.  The General Union of Volunatry Societies has requested a statement from either the First Presidency or Elder Holland to be included in each kit along with a statement from the king of Jordan.

All this in a Muslim country where the Church isn't even officially recognized.

We are waiting anxiously to see if the project will be approved in Salt Lake.