Is DU still "adopting" troops?

[Habibi]

I know there was a great effort by DUers at one time to send some of the troops helpful items and goodies. Is that still going on? I'd like to get involved.

The funny thing about the downturn in the economy and my own income (laid-off IT worker, now doing contract work editing computer manuals at about the third of the pay I was making) is that it's made me realize how little money it actually takes to live a decent life and still have a bit left over to give. I've been contributing to the recount issue but I'd like to do something more personal as well.

Thanks in advance!

[elepet]

1. Beanie babies

I seem to recall something about sending beanie babies to Iraq for the kids. sounded weird, but if true, I've got some.

[Habibi]

2. I've got a friend with about 8 million of those things

She started buying them during the BB frenzy of the 90s, probably thinking her collection would be worth something someday. Would be interesting to suggest this to her--she's completely apolitical. Nice idea.

[Habibi]

3. Kick

for the troops!

[deutsey]

4. I'm organizing an effort to help support wounded troops

It's pretty simple thing to do, but I think it's worthwhile.

I'm working through the grassroots peace group I volunteer with to build a partnership with the local VFW to get people in our community to send pre-paid long-distance phonecards to Walter Reed so that wounded troops can use them to call home (the gov't does not pay for such calls).

Our possible partnership with the VFW is particularly interesting since members of the local post were openly antagonistic with those of us participating in a weekly silent vigil for peace after the war began. There were some confrontations and the mayor actually had to send police to patrol where we were every week to prevent trouble.

I go to the VFW tonight to pitch the partnership idea. It'll be interesting to see what their response is. We are a peace group and our mission is to diminish conflict where ever we find it. We figure we could start with the tension between us and the VFW right here in town.

Anyway, here is the information for sending phone cards to Walter Reed:

If you would like to help, just purchase a phone card in any amount ($5 is great) and send it to:

Medical Family Assistance Center
Walter Reed Medical Center
6900 Georgia Avenue, NW
Building 2, Third Floor, Room 3E01
Washington, DC 20307-5001

[Habibi]

5. Thanks for the idea and

please report back on how tonight goes!