GIA Donates to Operation Homefront Southern California

Staff and students give to troops, military families and wounded warriors

CARLSBAD, Calif. – Dec. 30, 2009 – The Gemological Institute of America’s (GIA) staff and students donated food, toys, and cash to Operation Homefront Southern California, a national nonprofit that provides emergency support and morale to the troops, to the families they leave behind, and to wounded warriors when they return home.

According to the San Diego-based Operation Homefront, the items collected totaled approximately $2,445 in monetary donations, more than 200 toys, and up to 100 lbs. of food.

“The Institute is proud to be able to give back to the many individuals who help serve our country,” said Sarah Hatfield, senior manager of GIA Global Meetings and Events. “Both of the staff and students at our headquarters in Carlsbad participated in this worthwhile charitable cause.”

For the past 13 years, the Institute has organized the GIA Holiday Gift and Food Drive that benefits a local charity.

“We are very grateful for the outpouring of generosity from GIA,” said Cynthia Groback, office manager and human resources director of Operation Homefront Southern California. “The holiday season can be especially challenging for those in need therefore these donations truly make a difference for many deserving military service people and their families.”