‘American family’ supports NATO, humanitarian effort

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Tim Helton
  • Kosovo Force Press Office
PRISTINA, Kosovo (AFPN) --  Military convoys are a common site in Kosovo, so when a military convoy set out from Kosovo Force headquarters here headed for Gracanica on June 27, it was not given a second look.

However, this convoy was not carrying weapons, military supplies or security forces for post relief. It was carrying more than 80 boxes of donated clothing and other personal supplies headed for a local shelter for handicapped children, but this was not the first time.

“The American family [here] believes in our mission and (is) proud to serve our country. We also believe in humanitarian service to those in need,” said Col. David Adams, KFOR headquarters senior national representative for U.S. forces. “It is obvious that our American service men and women are concerned about people of Kosovo, especially those who have been plagued by the conflict.”

Officially, the nearly 200 U.S. Airmen and Soldiers assigned to KFOR headquarters have been supporting the North Atlantic Treaty Organization mission of providing security and stability for the country since 1999.

However, an unofficial part of their mission is to provide humanitarian aid throughout the region. They do this through an organization called “The American Family Project.” This project supports two events; weekly visits to a mother and child center, and a continuous clothing drive that provides items to different regions of the country.

“The American family has organized four large-scale donation drives over the last 12 months alone, which have affected many families throughout Kosovo,” said U.S. Army Lt. Col. James Moran, KFOR headquarters spokesman. “But, the success of this program has been based on the help from family and friends throughout the United States and Europe.”

And by all measures, these drives are quite successful. In 2004, the project received donations, which were sent to three different locations. All locations were based on recommendations from KFOR, KFOR translators, the United Nations Mission in Kosovo forces and officials who have knowledge of the conditions local families face.

In January, the Americans here donated more than $50,000 worth of supplies and more than 75 boxes of items. They received about 100 boxes of items for distribution, which took place in March at Urosevac.

And although, the exact dates these projects began are unknown, one thing for sure is the next project is already on its way.

“There is always a need for clothing, personal hygiene supplies, toys, canned goods and school supplies,” said Colonel Moran. “The challenge is getting the word out and having items sent here, but once it’s out, American families worldwide respond.”

And without a doubt these items are both needed and appreciated, said Snezana Rasic, the shelter manager. This means a lot to the children here and the community, and it proves the Soldiers do care.

Items not used by Ms. Rasic are forwarded to the Serbian Red Cross for distribution throughout the region. She said each item helps somebody.

Anyone interested in donating items can e-mail heltont@main.kfor.nato.int for mailing instructions.