Posted december 13, 2011
Cuddles for Cause Collects 1,000 Stuffed Animals For Area Flood Victims
The compassion of two little girls in the South Colonie led to a stuffed animal collection that is helping Schalmont Central School District students in a big way.
Flood victims and families in need received a new or gently loved stuffed animal this holiday season, which was donated by Lisha Kill Middle School and Veeder Elementary School students.
The collection, dubbed “Cuddles for Cause,” was initiated by sisters Jamie and Laura Matthews, fifth- and sixth-graders, respectively, at Lisha Kill Middle School.
"They were worried about all of the families who lost everything following this summer's storms," said Mary Beth Matthews, the girls' mother, who was instrumental in organizing the collection. "They wanted to give students the comfort of a stuffed animal to help them feel like they had something and show other children they care."
Since Jamie has a hard time going to bed without a stuffed animal she wondered how children affected by the floods were coping without theirs. To that end, she and her sister decided to start collecting animals at home, which eventually led to a school-wide drive. Ultimately, around 1,000 animals were collected and donated to Jefferson Elementary School—much more than originally expected.
"It was a wonderful thing," said Matthews. "All of the children learned about giving to those who need. It taught them the joy of giving instead of receiving, especially at this time of year."
The animals were distributed as part of the school's annual giving tree, which helps reduce the stress of the holidays by providing for families who have dire financial needs. Families also received a food basket complete with a frozen turkey for a holiday dinner and items needed to keep children safe and warm throughout the winter season.
"It might not have been math books, folder or pens, but it’s not all about writing and arithmetic," said Matthews. "We’re teaching children life skills like empathy—being kind to each other."
Stuffed animals provide a source of comfort
Jefferson Elementary School social worker Eileen Rings uses stuffed animals regularly in her line of work. The donation will help add to her collection, which benefits all students.
"Part of counseling is calming a child down and stuffed animals are a natural way to do that," said Rings. "It’s part of relationship building—meeting the child where their comfort level is."
Rings role plays with stuffed animals to children express what they are going through following a traumatic event. They can also be used to help better understand how a child is feeling. For example, a stuffed turtle may be used to help a shy child get out of their shell.
No matter if they are big or small, plush or tough, or worn and torn, young children feel safe with their arms wrapped around a stuffed animal.
"Children just love them," said Rings.
"It’s the universal language."
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