The Williamson County Animal Center in Franklin is collecting new stuffed animals through Dec. 12 for children at a local hospital.
The donations will go to young patients at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital Vanderbilt at Williamson Medical Center, according to the Williamson Herald. The drive, called "Dasher's Delivery," is in its second year. Staff delivered several large boxes of stuffed animals after last year's inaugural collection and hope to collect even more this time.
For the safety of the children, the hospital will accept only new stuffed animals. Small or medium sizes are preferred.
Why it matters
Stuffed animals reduce anxiety and provide distraction during uncomfortable procedures, according to Donna DeJaynes, the Williamson Health Foundation's philanthropy manager.
"The Foundation accepts donations from the community and gives them to our Child Life Specialist who helps children and their families cope with stress," DeJaynes said, as reported by the Herald. The specialist uses education, play and emotional support to focus on a child's well-being during hospitalization and treatment, she said.
Where to drop off
Donors can leave stuffed animals inside the Adoption entrance during public hours or on the center's front porch after hours.
Public hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The center is closed Sundays. Hours may vary due to holidays.
The Williamson County Animal Center is at 1006 Grigsby Hayes Court in Franklin.
