Operation Dreamseed in Afghanistan

"We do not garner the media attention that Iraq does, but I bear witness that the conditions and efforts are nearly the same. In deed, the missions in Iraq and Afghanistan are one in the same - Providing Enduring Security and Freedom." U.S. Army Captain Todd Schmidt

Todd Schmidt with Kandahar elders

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The Request
U.S. Army Captain Todd Schmidt, serving in the Regional Command-South based in Kandahar, wrote to Spirit of America with a plea for help for this war-torn region. Coalition Forces serving in this area, at one time used by Osama Bin Laden as his headquarters, need basic supplies and equipment to rebuild this once vibrant community in Afghanistan. Three primary areas of need have been identified to restore this region to vitality: re-establishing agricultural excellence, rebuilding schools and outfitting medical clinics. In the 1970s, prior to the Russian invasion, Kandahar was known for its productive orchards, vineyards, wheat fields and experimental seed production (Tarnak Farms). Farmers now struggle to make do with old, worn farm implements. Simple tools such as shovel, picks, rakes, axes, hammers and wheel barrows are needed to return productive agriculture to these once fertile fields. With 80% of the Southern Region being rural, Captain Schmidt reports that providing adequate farming tools can assist with reintegration, a critical but difficult process to help local militia soldiers lay down weapons and become a productive members of society. Since 90% of the population of this region is illiterate, another major priority of Coalition Forces in this region is to build a foundation for the education of Afghanistan's children. Virtually everything is needed from basic items often taken for granted in American schools such as benches, desks, chairs, chalkboards, pencils and paper to building actual classrooms for the learning to take place. The people of this region also suffer inadequate care for the most basic of human needs-good health. Basic first aid supplies are desperately needed to equip medical clinics. Essential items such as bandages, alcohol, peroxide, tapes, slings and thermometers will critically impact the ability of medical personnel in this region to provide adequate treatment. With the elections over in the Southern Region and "brilliantly successful" according to Captain Schmidt, the timing is perfect for your help. For More Information For more information about this project check our blog for updates. You can email us at staff@spiritofamerica.net with any questions or ideas.

Use of funds
We are a 501c3 nonprofit and your donation is tax deductible. 100% of all donations to this project will be used for direct project expenses (i.e., purchase and shipping of the needed goods and services). We do not deduct fees or expenses for organization overhead. Those expenses are funded separately. Donation Policy Typically, we need and use all donations for the project to which they are earmarked. Any donations in excess of those immediately needed to fund this project will be used for the expansion of the project. And, after expansion of the project, any surplus donations will be used according to the donors' instructions. As a donor, you have a choice to (A) reassign any unused portion of your donation to other Spirit of America projects, or (B) have us contact you to see if you wish a refund of the unused portion of your donation. If we contact you and you do not reply we will reassign any unused portion of your donation to other Spirit of America projects and 100% of those funds will be used for direct project expenses.