For the third year in a row a group of Fayette County High School students are sharing their good fortune with a group of people considered to be among the poorest in the United States, the Oglala Lakota Sioux tribe of Manderson, S.D.

Since its adoption as a Christmas project, the Fayette County High students have donated approximately 10,000 lbs. of clothing and toys, 50 computers, and provided educational scholarships for 20 Native American children.

This December a group of 12 students and two teachers, Kouns and Jill McNally, will spend six days with their adopted tribe, meeting the people they are sponsoring and doing service work on the 300-mile reservation.

In the past the group collected toys and clothing, but this year the project is more of a challenge for the students. This year the goal is to provide scholarships for 15 children, totaling $1,500, and heating oil for 20 families, totaling $1,000. Student volunteers have raised approximately $1,100 so far.

The students are accepting donations from private individuals and companies for their Christmas project. All donations are tax deductible and a receipt will be issued if one is requested. In appreciation for donations of more than $50, the donors will be invited to gather for a picture to be sent, along with the group's thanks, to area newspapers.

All donation amounts will be accepted. Make checks out to Fayette County High School and earmark them Lakota Christmas Project. Drop them off in the front office of the high school and ask that they be given to Chris Kouns.

Donations will be accepted until Dec. 5, as the group will be taking the check with them on their visit Dec. 10.

For more information, call Chris Kouns at 770-460-3540, ext. 137.

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