Strathmillan students are finding new homes for their previously-loved stuffed animals. 

Grade 4 student Calla P. found out about the initiative Cuddles 4 Kids from her mom, who works as a social worker. After learning more about the non-profit organization, she asked her friends to help her launch a collection drive at Strathmillan School.  

Cuddles 4 Kids was founded in 2013 by 10-year-old Madison Vanderhooft and her 13-year-old cousin, Cameron Houle. Together, the students developed a partnership with the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) to help provide stuffed animals for children in crisis. For the past six years, the WFPS team have been handing out stuffed animals or “cuddles” to children riding in ambulances or who are experiencing emergency situations. The cuddles are donated by schools who help to bundle up new or gently-used stuffed animals and donate them to the program. These cuddles offer comfort and safety during difficult times, and also build a network of kindness among youth who are willing to donate their possessions to help other children feel safe. 

Calla P. teamed up with school peers Liberty J. and Cara L. to raise awareness of Cuddles 4 Kids in March at their school. These young ambassadors sent home letters, made posters and spoke on morning announcements to help encourage many students to take part. In three weeks, Strathmillan School collected more than 400 stuffed animals, which will be donated, cleaned and then presented to children in Winnipeg who need a cuddle. Cuddles 4 Kids is currently looking for new ways to distribute their donations to help more children receive cuddles when they are in distress. For more information about the program, click here.