My name is MAJ Jim Barker and am currently serving with the U.S. Army in Iraq. My sister, Theresa Bradford and her son Quintin sent me the beanie baby "courage" while we were in Kuwait prior to the ground war. I gave "courage" to a young Iraqi girl named Sara in Baghdad in late April. I felt so good afterward I sent www.beaniemom.com an email asking for help getting more beanies to pass out to the children here.


Click on photos to enlarge.


Sara and I


SGT Harris with kids in Baghdad


Sara proudly displays her "courage"




The response has been overwhelming. The message boards came alive and Beanie collectors WORLDWIDE expressed their desire to support this cause by sending extra beanies and school supplies.

I always knew beanie people were special and had hearts of gold but I honestly didn't expect such a HUGE initial response. Over 2000 beanies were on the way within the first week. Every toy will find a good home. I have traveled this country from one end to the other and have not seen one toy. Your generosity will go a long way in correcting that deficiency. These people have endured so much pain and suffering under the rule of a ruthless dictator. Your gift will be remembered forever.

Special Thanks to Andy Schwarz and his sister Judi Durham for making BeaniesForBaghdad a reality on 4 May 2003 (my birthday). I also owe Sara at www.beaniemom.com a debt of gratitude for publishing my letter.

Andy has promised to update the website weekly so you can check in from time to time. I will send him pictures and updates as the packages arrive and the toys are distributed. He is also going to work to add a message board so you can add posts for others to view.

Again, Thanks to you all from the bottom of my heart.
JIM

Beanies for Baghdad begins:

http://dwiproductions.com/beaniesforbagdad.wmv