Care packages take cue from A Fortunate Life

Students at Capel Primary School have prepared care packages in a quest to brighten Christmas for Australian soldier’s serving in Afghanistan.

The school’s senior students and teachers inspired by the study of World War I veteran Albert Facey’s autobiography, A Fortunate Life.

The book includes an account of Mr Facey receiving a care package from Bunbury resident Evelyn Gibson, who he later married.

Teacher Michelle Buck said the children had seized the opportunity to spread some holiday cheer to troops serving overseas.

“We were hoping to send 20 packages but the response from students and parents has been overwhelming and we’ve managed to put together more than 30,” Miss Buck said.

Australia Post is covering the cost of delivering the packages which will be given to soldiers on December 25.

“The students had to research what can and can’t be sent over there because there are some pretty strict guidelines,” she said.

“We were able to send things like roll-on deodorant, lollies and handwritten notes for the soldiers and dog treats and biscuits for the service dogs.”

Capel Primary School was so impressed by the senior students’ response that it plans to involve the whole school in the project next year.

“The care package that Albert receives in the book gives him an important source of comfort and we’d love to provide that same comfort to as many of our troops as possible,” Miss Buck said.