A stuffed animal may not seem like an essential product, but to a young child who just witnessed abuse at home… it’s essential.
When a survivor comes into Sheltering Wings for the first time, they receive a welcome bag. This bag includes things like shampoo, body wash, a hairbrush, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and other hygiene products. And for children, this bag also includes toys, books, and a stuffed animal.
I was recently putting together two welcome bags for children coming into shelter. I quickly found the hygiene products and placed them into the bags. Then I found some age-appropriate books and toys.
And then I began to look for cuddly stuffed animals. First, I found a stuffed duck. It was so soft, fluffy, and cuddly – the perfect stuffed animal to comfort a child during their first night in shelter!
I kept looking for a second stuffed animal to put in the other welcome bag, but I couldn’t find one that felt right. I found some that could work, but they weren’t soft and cuddly like the duck.
These children had just witnessed abuse at their home. They were leaving everything familiar to flee to a shelter.
All I wanted to do was give them the small comfort of a cuddly stuffed animal.
I felt myself start to get a little worked up and emotional as I desperately searched for a stuffed animal.
Then I found it. I found the perfect teddy bear. It was so soft and cuddly – perfect for the welcome bag! I was so excited that I actually took a picture of the bear. Here is it!
And you know what? It’s because of YOU that these children have stuffed animals to sleep with. YOUR generosity allowed me to place toothbrushes and combs in their welcome bag. YOU provided the books and toys. YOU made this happen.
This story is possible because of you.
We’re a few days past the halfway point for Christmas in July. Your donations during Christmas in July help to restock our depleted shelves. You put essential products back in our closets and pantries (even essential stuffed animals).
It’s not too late to give, gather, and share during Christmas in July.
Click here to get involved and learn more about Christmas in July!
Thanks for caring. You’re changing lives.
With Gratitude,
Jenna Harris
