REQUEST: Help these worthy kids

I would like to appeal to the citizens of Kootenai County for a donation of at least $1, or more if you like, and send it directly to St. Labre Indian School in Ashland, Mont.

The school was established 125 years ago, and their water system is quite old and breaking down. It’s very costly for them to keep up the repairs, with the electronics and all. Engineers that have looked at the system say it’s not if it will completely break down, but when, so they are planning on a new system sometime soon, which takes a lot of money.

If this system should go down, the school would have to shut down for a period of time. The cost of hauling water to St. Labre School would be prohibitive. Kids are bused from about 100 miles away and live in dorms. During the week they receive three hot meals a day, nice warm beds, and clothing and shoes which are not always provided at home.

School kids range from first grade through high school. Some kids stay through the summer as well. I give to the school and to others’ needs and feel that I and others could help toward this water system by giving at least $1. One dollar won’t buy a well, but a lot of dollars will help this school.

The children realize there are a lot of Americans who care about their welfare and a whole lot of good citizens of Idaho as well. If you wish to send a dollar or more, put St. Labre Indian School, Ashland, Mont., 59004-1001 on the envelope. Say it is for the water well so it will be put directly for that cause.

If you would like to talk to the assistant director of this school, who is handling funds for this new well, call Marge Rath, (406) 652-0959. I am not connected to St. Labre school in any way, except to give a small support in any way I can and the Indian children. I am part Indian myself, so I feel close to their needs.

LEO VINZANT

Rathdrum