WEST MILFORD Wanting to send some goodwill to the soldiers overseas and interested in getting her students involved in a community service project, third-grade teacher Erin Gabriele and paraprofessional Debbie Harrison began collecting items to send to the troops for the holidays. To begin this endeavor, Gabriele drafted a letter to the staff and parents requesting specific items including letters of appreciation. “The project has received an overwhelming response,” stated Gabriele. “We collected many letters, cards and boxes of necessary items for the soldiers.” One student quote best sums up the sentiments for this undertaking: Jacalyne Wyatt wrote, “My work is hard but yours is much harder. Thank you for protecting us. You are the bravest person I know. Be safe.” Participation in this project also extended beyond the doors of Westbrook School with Lakeland Bank donating a considerable amount of supplies. In addition, Maple Road and Upper Greenwood Lake Schools contributed letters of appreciation. Gabriele reported that the Red Cross was grateful and astonished for all that had been donated, as they have not received many donations in recent years. “While our school gave gifts, we also received the gift of teaching our students compassion and generosity. I am proud to be a part of such a caring and generous school,” said Gabriele.