The “Charming Young Ladies” of King’s Fork High School are putting their charm to good work this Christmas season.

The club is collecting items through Nov. 30 to include in care packages for local soldiers serving in Afghanistan. Club members are asking community members to bring items by the school to be included in the packages.

“We want them to know that someone is looking out for them while they’re out there risking their life and looking out for us,” said Yasmin Artis, a senior in the club. “I know we’re not the only ones who feel that way. Hopefully other people will donate things, too.”

Destani Cox, a junior in the club, has an older brother, Joshua Vasquez, who is a graduate of King’s Fork High School and has been stationed in Afghanistan since August. The club decided to put together the care packages for his troop.

“I just want him to know we miss him,” Cox said. “It’s good to know I’m helping my brother.”

The club has been collecting travel-size toiletries, non-perishable snacks and games to include in the packages. So far, they have gathered three large boxes of items.

The club has been active at the school for the past four years and now has 27 members, according to sponsor Iyasha Edwards.

The club meets twice a month. Meetings include talk about long-term goals, advice on meeting those goals and speakers who tell them about different career opportunities and issues.

They also participate in two community service projects each year.

In the past, the girls have volunteered in nursing homes and for projects such as Toys for Tots.

“But this year we wanted to do something different,” Edwards said.

“We miss them and just want them to know we love them,” added club member Jasmyne Clifford, whose uncle is deployed to Iraq. “They’re there with their military family, but they still have us here, and we know what they’re going through isn’t easy — especially during the holiday season. Hopefully they know that we’re still with them in spirit.”

To donate to the club, call Edwards at 923-5242 or drop off items at the school, 351 King’s Fork Road.