Gulf letter

Editor's note: Cindy Burns, who coordinates health and safety programs and disaster training for the American Red Cross of Montana, got a hold of the Flathead County school superintendent when Katrina hit and helped facilitate a writing campaign between local schools and schools in the Gulf. Many letters have gone down to the students. One teacher's response to Burns follows.

Dear Ms. Burns,

I am a sixth-grade teacher at Bel-Aire Elementary in Gulfport, Miss. I was given 10 of the letters you forwarded for the children and wanted to let you know how much my students enjoyed them. They wrote back and are very eager to keep the letters going back and forth.

I cannot tell you how much it means to me that you have taken the time to start this bond across state lines. The outpouring of human kindness is overwhelming, and just saying thank you does not convey the gratitude we have down here.

Please let the children know that we are grateful.

Beth A. Witt,

Bel-Aire Elementary

Gulfport, Mississippi