Operation Pittsburgh Pride

Press Release

Local Parents Start Collection To Benefit Soldiers
(press release)

(KDKA) PITTSBURGH The parents of a local soldier serving in Iraq are taking action to help soldiers like their son Jordan who is serving in Iraq on this Veteran's Day.

Susan and Ron Wardezak were surprised to learn that even though the military provides the basics that soldiers' need, there are a lot of things we consider basic that they can't always get -- like toiletries, and new sheets and band-aids.

The Wardezak's named their collection "Operation Pittsburgh Pride".

It started with four e-mails two weeks ago and has ballooned into piles at Ron's office.

They decided to start this after learning about the conditions for the soldiers.

Some things that are in demand are: toiletries, towels, beef jerky, Crystal Light, blank holiday cards and even leftover Halloween candy.

In Iraq, those items are luxuries.

Even if the soldiers could afford them, there's nowhere to buy them.

Monetary donations go toward shipping.

The next shipment will be going out on December 10.

If you would like to make a donation or have questions about Operation Pittsburgh Pride you can call 412/736-8183 or you can drop off donations at the following collection point:

Allstate Insurance
411 East Main Street
Carnegie, PA 15106