Mom Gathers Aid For Earthquake Victims

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The deadly earthquake that hit China this week sent emotional shock waves thousands of miles away, and one local mother is working to help those affected.

Video: Mom Gathers Items For Earthquake Victims

Resident Jeannie Butler said her heart sank after hearing so many children had been left without parents from the natural disaster.

A small shed in Butler's back yard is packed nearly to the ceiling with boxes of items full with clothing, vitamins, shoes and socks for nearly a thousand newly orphaned Chinese children.

"We have such a heart for the children in China," said Butler.

She said she watched in horror as news accounts showed images of destruction following the earthquake.

Tens of thousands of people are feared dead. At least a thousand Chinese children have lost their parents.

Butler is leaving Nashville on Monday with these items to help the orphanages deal with the devastation.

"We want to get as much as we can over to those children," said Butler.

Haley Butler appreciates her mother's dedication to Chinese orphans. The 13-year-old was just a toddler when Jeannie brought her back to the U.S. from China and made her part of her family.

"She didn't have to do this. She wanted to, so it's really cool," said Haley Butler.

Shortly after Haley's adoption, Jeannie started Annabelle's Wish, a nonprofit agency named for another child from China who died at a young age.

Jeannie's cousin, Peggy Richardson, is helping out with the organization.

"Knowing we can make a difference in the lives of other children we can't bring home is real special," said Richardson

Airfare for the boxes that will be shipped cost at least $150 each. She is hauling at least 25 of them overseas to areas affected by the earthquake.

Residents who are interested in making donations to Annabelle's Wish can make donations at any Bank of America branch.