Operation: Military Kids - New York supports Reserve and National Guard kids in our own backyard by increasing community awareness of issues faced by children of deployed service members.  Education, service opportunities; and a network of local resources are offered.

This program is a part of the National Operation: Military Kids effort.

New:  Draft of the Hero Pack Handbook

Want to get involved? Special programming is available to military kids(see right column)...and there are many opportunities (see below) for others to serve this cause.

OMK - NY Workshops.  Led by trained facilitators, OMK - NY workshops are designed especially for youth workers, educators, counselors and community service agencies. These workshops offer an insight into military culture and the deployment cycle; and suggest ways to best provide for, understand the needs of, and support military kids and their families through community resources.  Trainings are regularly scheduled or can be requested.

Hero Packs.  Hero Packs are backpacks filled with letters, goodies and memorabilia from OMK Core Partners and collaborators within New York State.  Children’s clubs, youth groups, scouting organizations, 4-H clubs and school classes are invited to create their own Hero Packs.  OMK - NY team members will then connect with the group to locate Guard or Reserve families within the community or region who would like to receive these packs.  More information can be requested.  A draft of the Hero Pack Handbook is available.

Pen Pal Program - Mission: Buddy Mail.  Reserve and National Guard children are invited to exchange mail with another Active Duty or non-military child in New York.  With parental permission, “newly military” children will be able to share their experiences and gain support from someone their own age.   More information can be requested.

Other Service Projects:

• "The Gator Project" .  Directions and information on making gators and neck coolers for soldiers serving in Iraq & Afghanistan.
• Helmet Liners.  An alternative to the gator project - this one is crocheted.
  

For more information about Operation Military Kids, click here to contact Sara Kessler (315) 788-8450 ext 272.

Interim Military Program Liason