From "The Oak Ridger" Online

Story last updated at 1:15 p.m. on Tuesday, April 27, 1999

Jefferson pupils launch drive for Russian orphans

Eighth grade Service Learning students at Jefferson Middle School are taking on a task of international proportions.

The class, taught by Michelle Stone, is made up of 16 teens. With the help of the Sister City Support Organization, students will have the opportunity to lend a hand to those in need.

The teens have organized a drive to help orphans in Obninsk, Russia, the sister city to Oak Ridge. The Russian children, ages 2-14, need of clothing, puzzles, coloring books, crayons and children's scissors.

The students are hoping to get participation from the student body, faculty and community. Students in each homeroom at Jefferson are bringing in donated items this week. The class will also take donations in front of Wal-Mart from 8 a.m. until noon on Saturday.

The clothing and toys will be shipped to Russia by the Oak Ridge Sister City Support Organization.

For more information or to make a donation, contact Michelle Stone or Sisse Parker at Jefferson, 482-8540.