BAGHDAD — Iraqi National Police Officers donated more than 400 blankets to an orphanage in the Kamaliyah neighborhood of New Baghdad, Jan. 3.
The donation drive was led by the 4th Brigade, 1st Iraqi National Police Division along with neighborhood leaders and the orphanage headmaster. The donation was to help children and widows battle the chilly weather this winter where average temperatures can dip down into the low 40s.
Gen. Amer Flayeh Hassoun, the 4th Bde., 1st NP commander, along with his officers, handed out wool blankets to all who attended the drive. Each child and widow thanked Hassoun for his help upon receiving the donation.
“NPs are making continuing efforts to improve all of the communities of New Baghdad,” said Hassoun. “This is just one way of giving back to our fellow citizens.”
The drive allowed Hassoun the opportunity to speak with citizens about the upcoming projects the NP is planning and assured residents that Iraqi Security Forces will continue to maintain security and improve living conditions in New Baghdad.
“The blanket distribution was planned and executed by the ISF,” said Capt. Benjamin Culver, a native of Portland, Ore. and fire support officer for the 1st Battalion, 66th Armor Regiment. “They continue to impress me by their willingness to secure the New Baghdad area and help the local community.”
The orphanage headmaster also expressed his gratitude for the donated blankets.
“These blankets were important to get out to people as the temperature in Iraq has dropped dramatically in the last few weeks,” he said. “We are excited to receive these blankets, and this shows how Police Officers are helping the people who really need it.”
(Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO)