Dear Lee

We would like to thank you for helping us with the “Angel Teddy Bear Project” back in May of this year.

Over one thousand teddy bears were sent to the children of Massac County, Illinois.  They were distributed to the children in Head Start, Kindergarten, Grade One and Grade Two.

The county was hit by an F4 tornado on May 6th.  The tornado was one mile wide and tore through the entire county.  It destroyed numerous homes, trailers and other buildings.  The tornado claimed two lives and injured more than 100.

The teddy bears were well received and the children loved them!  We have received a number of letters from the children and I have enclosed a few.

Also enclosed you will find a number of photographs of some of the children who received bears along with additional information on the tornado.

We sent home letters with all of the children which gave parents additional information on helping children cope after disaster along with a letter about the bears for the children.  You will find all of this enclosed and some of the newspapers articles about the bear distribution.

We deeply appreciate the effort that the Russ Berrie Company made in ensuring that these children have a furry friend to comfort them after the trauma they have suffered.  Lee, your hard work and personal involvement ensured that these Angel Bears quickly reached these children when they were most needed. 

Thank you! Sincerely,