Donations made kite festivals a reality

To the editor:

The Johnson County Community Partnership for Protecting Children was able to give away more than 300 kites to kids in Johnson County this spring thanks to incredibly generous support from area businesses, organizations and individuals.

We estimate more than 500 people attended our recent kite festivals in Iowa City and North Liberty in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month. Without so much community support, we could not have provided this opportunity for kids to enjoy positive interactions with their parents and caregivers - a key element to preventing child abuse.

Our gratitude goes out to MH Equipment, Great Western Bank, North Liberty Optimist Club, Hills Bank and Trust Co., University of Iowa Community Credit Union, the parks and recreation departments in Iowa City and North Liberty, Casey's General Stores, Colonial Lanes, Family Video, New Pioneer Food Co-op, Panera Bread, Pizza Ranch of North Liberty, Molly's Cupcakes, Scheels, Zio Johno's, the North Liberty Community Pantry, Orange Leaf, Corridor Kids Pediatric Dentistry, Red's Alehouse, and Ghurtie's Gourmet Frozen Yoghurt Café.

We'd also like to thank many individuals who donated food, money, kites and their time to provide these fun events. Hope you all can join us next spring!

LaTasha DeLoach

Johnson County Community Partnership for Protecting Children