NM OES DISTRICT 1 BACKPACK DRIVE

A statewide project of New Mexico Order of the Eastern Star Organization District 1, Ruth 6, Georgetown 4, and Silver City 3 - were represented December 12, 2023, when they presented 18 backpacks to CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) in Deming.

Joanna Vasquez, Deputy Manager, accepted the backpacks with many thanks for the child(ren) who sometimes have nothing when they have to leave their homes. She is the Children's Advocate for Luna, Hidalgo, and Grant Counties. CASA is the third organization in line to help the child(ren) with their foster environment. They get the paperwork and are in court with the child(ren) to help determine their future. There are two paid managers, with the rest of the advocates being volunteers.

Various members of OES helped. Lucia Smith's car was loaded with items. Pat Jones and Joyce Smith-James helped take them into the building. Jane Borman, a member of Ruth Chapter is also an advocate for the children and assisted. Jane will be attending Ruth Chapter’s Official Visit to talk about advocacy for child(ren).

The backpacks were loaded with stuffed animals, toothbrushes, combs, soap, books and other items the person might need. These are not only for small child(ren), but include older ones also. 

District 1, Order of the Eastern Star, is committed throughout 2024 to this project, The Backpack Drive, helping children in traumatic circumstances. 

If you would like to help you may contact:

- Joanna Vasquez at CASA, 575-694-5719

- Lucia Smith

- Chloe Young, 602-550-5199

- Marilyn Page

The child(ren) leave home many times with only the clothes they are wearing. They need toiletries, something comforting to hold on to (stuffed animal, book). Let's all help.