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Dec. 29, 2011—The compassion of two little girls in the South
Colonie Central School District led to a stuffed animal
collection that is helping Schalmont students in a big way.
Flooding 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. "They are
the universal language."
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