Mothers Center of Jersey Shore adopts local soldier

The Mothers Center of the Jersey Shore has "adopted" U.S. soldier and Ocean County resident Dan Canales, along with his wife, Annette Jo, and their children, Joseph, 7, Daniel, 6, Holly, 3, and Eric, 8 months.

Canales is deployed in Iraq as an Army civil affairs officer responsible for reconstruction activities. He also coordinates support for local civilians, and interaction with the Iraqi government.

Members of the Mothers Center of the Jersey Shore donated items for a care package of toiletries and food, which were sent to Canales, along with cards from the children in the organization for him to distribute to other soldiers in his division.

Members of the Mothers Center will continue collecting items and replenish the soldier's care package in the coming months.

The Mothers Center of the Jersey Shore is a local nonprofit organization that serves Ocean and southern Monmouth counties by providing activities and support to local families. The Mothers Center also donates to other area charities such as the Providence House, Ocean's Harbor House and Children's Specialized Hospital. Details: (732) 449-3936.