Got a stash of gently used Beanie Babies that you don't know what to do with? Maybe you've got some extra school supplies or some sporting equipment that your child is no longer using? Professional organizer Cynthia Gentit of Farmington Hills, MI has a suggestion for you -- send them to the troops through Beanies for Baghdad.
AP Photo/Anjum Naveed
Beanies for Baghdad acts as a bridge between American military personnel overseas and the children of Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kosovo. Toys and school supplies sent by Americans at home are distributed by the soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines to children who can use them.
"Here's how it works," says Cynthia, "You collect your beanies and box them up in a good sturdy box ... Then contact the charity via the website email [ info@beaniesforbaghdad.com ] and tell them you have a donation to make. They will send you the addresses of two servicemen in need of beanies. Pick an address, label, and mail your package."
Donors are responsible for shipping costs to the military postal service which are less expensive than overseas shipping costs. Both the shipping costs and value of the items donated are tax deductible.
According to the Beanies for Baghdad website, some ideas for what to send to the troops for this program include:
- Beanie Babies
- Stuffed animals
- School supplies
- Frisbees
- Balls
- Sporting equipment in general
- Small cars (i.e. Hot Wheels or Matchbox)
Items should be gently used and in good condition (or new). They will not accept religious material.
"Think about it," adds Cynthia, "Wouldn't you rather help a soldier than have these things sitting in a drawer somewhere?"
For more info: Cynthia Gentit is a residential professional organizer and the owner of Eat That Elephant! LLC in Farmington Hills, MI. She is a Board Member National Association of Professional Organizers - Southeast Michigan chapter and a member of the National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization. Cynthia can be reached at (248) 752-0966. Cynthia@EatThatElephant.com.
All questions related to the Beanies for Baghdad program and requirements may be directed to info@beaniesforbaghdad.com or www.beaniesforbaghdad.com.
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