A heart to help

BAXTER — A Baxter student is working to make a difference following Hurricane Harvey’s destruction in Houston by launching Operation Harvey for Pets in his community. As thousands of people were displaced, 13-year-old Bryce Barber wanted to ensure their pets weren’t forgotten.

Barber decided to spring into action when his aunt from Texas traveled to Iowa to dodge Mother Nature’s path. Barber heard firsthand from 25-year Texas resident Renee Johnson about the chaos.

Barber said he loves animals and it broke his heart to see all the animals on TV being rescued, scared and homeless.

Johnson said most shelters were full and in need of an immense amount of supplies.

“I have volunteered in various shelters and it was really hard to see them in that condition,” Johnson said. “I’m passionate about animals, and I think it’s great people all the way in Iowa are helping out.”

Barber began his operation by placing donation buckets at the Baxter Family Market, selling raffle tickets at Cadillac Jack’s and by placing donation buckets at the school.

“Talking with Renee about the rescue efforts just made my heart break and I felt I had to help somehow, so, I came up with Operation Harvey for pets,” Barber said. “I also feel that Baxter is a great community and this town pulls together for many things and we have each other’s backs all the time.”

Barber said he tried to relate to the situation as much as possible by thinking of his Husky, Jasmine.

“I feel it is important because if we were in the same boat, everyone would come help us ... it is important to help cause the animals voices can’t be heard and we can speak for them,” Barber said. “I would be lost if Jasmine was down there hurt, hungry and scared so I just think about that.”

Barber’s mother, Heidi, said the community has been very receptive and supportive along with teachers at the school.

“I like our small town of Baxter and I know everyone is compassionate and steps up and helps everyone — we show that we care,” Heidi Barber said.

According to Heidi Barber, all monetary donations Bryce received have been used to buy pet supplies. Johnson will then take the pet supplies and deliver it to animal shelters in Texas.

Many residents have also picked up supplies instead of money, Heidi Barber said.

“My sister is leaving Saturday,” Heidi Barber said. “She has been in close contact with the rescues and Fort Worth Animal shelter and they are very excited and thankful for all the donations coming to them from Iowa.”

The whole operation has left Heidi Barber feeling proud of her son and his efforts.

“He has a heart of gold and really cares about animals,” Heidi Barber said. “I want my children to do the right thing and help others.”

Items the shelter still needs are dog shampoo and puppy food.

Contact Kayla Singletary at 641-792-3121 ext. 6533 or ksingletary@ newtondailynews.com