MATAMORAS - PA 4-H has been working with several other organizations across the state of Pennsylvania to support children who have a deployed parent.

Since 4-H is in every county, it took the lead on distributing Hero Packs to school age youth. National Guardsman, Michael King requested Hero Packs for his children Gabrielle and Ayden who currently live with mom, Rachel Brunner-King in Matamoras, PA.

In December, 4-H Educator Diane Appel presented the children their packs at Delaware Elementary School.  Active Duty Guardsman King was able to celebrate the holidays with his family prior to going overseas.  

The Hero Pack is a backpack with school supplies and communication materials so the child can keep in touch with their parent. They also have some fun items like baseballs, sunglasses, crayons and 4-H items.

The Hero Pack comes with a small parent pack that has information about each of the cooperating organizations and resources for military families. Included is the 4-H Head, Heart, Hands, and Health brochure as well as Pike County 4-H Youth Development Program information.

For more information, contact the Penn State Cooperative Extension, Pike County office and ask for Diane Appel, the 4-H Educator at (570) 296-3400 or call Susan Smith, Operation Military Kids Project Coordinator at Penn State University (814) 865-2264.