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Local Woman Creates Over 400 Stuffed Animals for Children in Crisis

A variety of handmade stuffed animals designed to comfort children during crises.

News Summary

Harriet Yeapanis has positively impacted her Newport News community by crafting over 400 handmade stuffed animals for children facing crises. These comforting plush toys help ease distress during emergencies and are utilized by local first responders. Recognized for her efforts, Yeapanis received an Everyday Hero award and continues her mission, recently receiving support to keep creating these beloved comfort items. Her initiative showcases the profound effect of individual actions in fostering community support for those in need.

Newport News – A local woman, Harriet Yeapanis, has made a remarkable difference in her community by creating over 400 handmade stuffed animals for children faced with crises. These plush toys serve as comfort items during distressing situations, allowing young ones to find solace amid turmoil. Yeapanis’s initiative began several years ago after she witnessed a young child in distress, spurring her to take action and provide comfort through her creations.

The stuffed animals come in various designs including bunnies, pigs, and baby bears, ensuring that each child can find some comfort from a toy that resonates with them. These toys are now utilized by both the Newport News Police Department and the Fire Department, highlighting the community’s recognition of their importance in aiding children during emergencies.

Chief Steve Drew of the Newport News Police Department and Chief Wesley Rogers of the Newport News Fire Department both underscored the significance of providing comfort to kids in tough situations. They noted that the stuffed animals play a critical role in helping to calm children at the moment when they may be most fearful. The positive impact of these toys is widespread, with first responders expressing gratitude for Yeapanis’s selfless contributions.

Recently, Jennifer Royal, a CARE supervisor with the fire department, placed an order for more stuffed animals due to dwindling stock, demonstrating the ongoing demand for Yeapanis’s work. This inspiring project has not only provided comfort to countless children but has also sparked a sense of community spirit, rallying support for Yeapanis’s ongoing endeavors.

Unbeknownst to her, Yeapanis received an Everyday Hero award during a ceremony held for her son-in-law, recognizing her dedication and impact on the lives of children in her community. Despite the accolades, she humbly states that her joy comes from seeing the relief and distraction her stuffed animals bring to children in distress.

With a recent $300 gift certificate from Southern Bank allocated for yarn supplies, Yeapanis is motivated to continue her mission. She expresses her intent to keep crafting these special toys for as long as she can, reaffirming her commitment to helping children through challenging times. The emotional benefits of the stuffed animals extend beyond just physical comfort; they offer children a distraction during crises, which can lead to a gentler transition from fear to safety.

Yeapanis’s heartfelt project represents the power of individual initiative in creating profound change within a community. As she continues to craft these beloved stuffed animals, her role as a small but significant player in providing comfort is deeply appreciated by parents, first responders, and most importantly, the children who benefit from her kindness.