Happy New Years 2006

The results of Iraq's December 15th elections are beginning to become clear as the Shiites have solidified their stronghold, but have not gained enough to have a simple majority. 184 of the 237 seats are needed to gain a coalition within the government, but it is projected that the Shiites only gained 130. This may work best for the growing nation by forcing each of the parties to work together. With an international investigation of the election still in progress it may be 2 weeks before we know the actual results.

In recent days, leaders from each group have been meeting to ensure they can gain a foothold within the new government. Over the next few weeks the ministries will slowly be filled and begin to put together their agendas for the next 4 years. Some estimate that the Iraqi government will not be in full swing until late April.

War Kids Relief is starting 2006 by working closely with the current ministries in Baghdad as they transition into their new roles. We are working to implement a computer classroom proposal that we hope can be bring the youth through out Iraq's 18 governorates into the 21st century. We hope by spring, children are receiving classes in 100 youth centers and focusing their education on computer skills as well as English and other important topics.

The next 6 months are a critical time for both Iraq and War Kids Relief. With continued commitment we will be able to really make a difference in the lives of the Iraq children. Hopefully we will also be able to help those here at home, like the young teenage boy from Florida who traveled to Baghdad on his Christmas holidays. We are working to implement an adopt a youth center program so children here in the states can help their peers in Iraq gain a foothold for a better future.

For more information on War Kids Relief, please visit the Vietnam Veterans of America Foundation (VVAF) homepage, (http://vvaf.org/).