These young adults, from the Merrimack area, were participating in the St John Neumann's Fast for Social Action. The Fast is an opportunity for the youth participants to raise money for local non-profits as well as to learn about the missions of these organizations. During the Fast, which was held on March 20th and 21st, the participants - mostly 6th through 12 graders - abstain from eating solid food for 30 hours, drinking only juice and water, to give them an idea of how others in our own community, and around the world, are sometimes forced to choose between food and other necessities. Prior to the Fast, they collect money from friends, relatives, schoolmates, and others who "sponsor" them for their Fast, all of which will be donated to the chosen non-profit agencies.

To give you an idea of what has been accomplished over the past 12 years,the Fast participants have raised over $200,000 for the more than 35 local non-profit agencies that they have sponsored.

In addition, the kids, along with donations from local schools and members of the parish, have collected over 65,000 pounds of food for the St. John Neumann Food Pantry and other Nashua and Merrimack food pantries.

This year, one of the agencies they sponsored was......

!*!*!*!*! Project Linus!*!*!*!*!

These young adults stepped up to ensure that NH children in crisis will have the blanket hugs they need for the 2009/2010 winter season. Just when we were about to close our chapter due to a severe drop in donations, our angels appeared, and our mission will continue

There are not enough words available to describe our deep gratitude to these angels who have put the needs of others ahead of their own.

Thank you.....Thank you....Thank you........Thank You.

Project Linus blankets must be new, handmade and washable, as ourmission is to donate only handmade blankets. We receive thank you notes from children who express how touched they are that a stranger would take the time to make something special just for them. They really know the difference. Purchased blankets are nice, but handmade blankets are from the heart, just like a warm hug. Some Blanketeers will use a purchased blanket and then add loving touches such as appliques, crocheted trim around the edges, etc. These are perfectly acceptable, as they are unique and special.

We like to have a variety of sizes on hand. For example, blankets could be as small as 36" X 36". The majority of Project Linus blankets are about 40" X 60", or what is called crib size. Blankets could be as large as 45"X 75" or twin size (64" x 75") for teens. Our chapter is in need of all sizes right now, as we have very few blankets.

Whether they are made of fabric, yarn or fleece, all blankets need to be machine washable.

Please take special care to ensure that blankets are free of smoky smells or any chemicals which could jeopardize the health of the child.

Check blankets carefully for forgotton pins, and please do not use embellishments such as buttons that could come loose and be swallowed.