Hi, my name is Jeanne. In 2023, through the Friends of Pine Ridge Reservation, I learned about the incredible needs of children in the Oglala Lakota Children’s Justice Center in Pine Ridge SD. When kids are removed from abusive homes, the OLCJC assists them in the journey through the courts. FOPRR suggested toys to help kids cope with court appearances so I pledged to send hand-crocheted dolls and teddy bears for the kids. I’ve used up my current stash of yarn but it’s quite expensive to ship oversized boxes of stuffed toys across the country. Several boxes I shipped were over $75 each for shipping alone. Over 275 dolls and stuffed animals have been made and sent so far, including shipments of toys to domestic violence shelters for indigenous women and children from the Lakota and Yurok communities. I've sent toys to a Navajo baby shower as well. Recently, I crocheted and mailed 40 baby hats for another Navajo baby shower. I would truly appreciate any help you can give me to cover postage costs and the costs of supplies, like polyfil stuffing (one box is $40-$60). The amount I’ve received has already covered some of my costs in 2023, 2024, and 2025. My goal should carry me through 2026 and I’m looking forward to reaching the next milestone of 300 toys donated. I ask for help because I am retired and living on a fixed income and in 2026 postage costs are going up.

It's my dream to send hand-crocheted lovies to children in need of a smile and a friend, and your kind donations keep me working every day. Thank you!