Fourth Grader Sends Hugs to Haiti
Feb 5, 2010
Filed in Haiti Relief
DALLAS—Christa Wood, 10, was watching the news on Haiti with her babysitter when she decided she had to do something.
“It’s like I had no choice. I had to do something,” Wood said.
Wood, a fourth-grade student from Saginaw, and her babysitter, Julie Sanderson, talked over the situation and came up with the idea of Hugs for Haiti.
Lara Deviller, Wood’s mom, said that the program started as something that was just in her daughter’s school, but has grown into something bigger. Drop-off stations now include Wal-Mart, 1st Convenience Bank and several restaurants, shops, multiple schools and other businesses in Saginaw.
“Right now we’re at close to 600 bears,” Deviller said.
Wood said that she was determined to do something “incredible” and added that stuffed toy donations are something practical that kids can give away.
“And I think it’ll be good for the kids in Haiti because it’ll make them feel safe and give them something to love,” she said.
Matt Asato, director of international humanitarian aid at Buckner said he is encouraged to see young people stepping up to help the orphans in Haiti.
“These children are dealing with significant trauma and the gift of a stuffed animal will go a long way to comfort them alongside the other vital aid we’re collecting and sending.”
Hugs for Haiti can also be dropped off at the Buckner Center for Humanitarian Aid at 5405 Shoe Drive Mesquite, Texas 75149. Call 214-328-7463 to schedule a time for delivery.
8 Comment(s)
By Norma Quintana on Feb 8, 2010 | Reply
Praise God! Isn’t it wonderful to know that God doesn’t have an age limit on who He chooses to serve in His kingdom. Thank you Ms. Christa for having a heart of a servant and being used to help others that are in need. After reading this e-mail I am encouraged to continue praying for my four year grand-daughter as I ask God to give her a heart of a servant. May God continue to bless you and your family, as well as all the lovely people in Texas that are giving what seems to be just a little something but God will use it for a something big.
By Lara on Feb 12, 2010 | Reply
Thank you so much for believing in the power of giving. As of today, we have collected over 1,000 stuffed animals. Thank you so much for your support!
I want to thank the wonderful staff at Buckner International for helping Crista’s dream of doing something incredible come true:)
One proud Momma,
Lara (Crista’s Mom)
By haylee wood on Feb 13, 2010 | Reply
hi crista, its haylee your cousin, it was a really good idea to do this hugs for haiti drive. that was sweet.
By karin on Feb 17, 2010 | Reply
Love it! such a great idea Christa. Wish there was a drop off center here in AZ.
By Tina on Feb 22, 2010 | Reply
Hi Christa,
I couldn’t believe my eyes when I read your story. My daughter, Mandy, and I started collecting stuffed animals several weeks ago and … you won’t believe this … our drive is called the exact same thing … “Hugs for Haiti!” We have been collecting from friends and neighbors so far and we’ve collected about 200 animals.
We are trying to find some help to get these to Haiti and to be sure they are going to go to the little children who need them the most. I know you are working with Buckner International to get yours to the right place. Do you think they would help us as well? We could collect so much more if we knew they would be shipped and distributed properly.
Congratulations on your great idea. As they say ‘Great minds think alike.”
By Keri on Feb 23, 2010 | Reply
Christa-
You should be so proud, not only because you’ve helped children in need feel loved, but because you’ve received the message from God about servanthood – and accepted that message! We have a ten year old son, who is following likewise calls and I know how it makes a parent feel! KUDOS to your parents! Continue to do God work with a happy and loving heart:)
By Sue Sorrells on Mar 9, 2010 | Reply
Crista, Kermit and I are so proud of you and what you are doing. Such an amazing young lady you have become since we had you for a tiny neighbor girl. We will always support you in whatever you do. I know how proud your family is of what you are doing to help send love around the world. God bless you sweet girl!!
By Lara on Mar 19, 2010 | Reply
I want to personally thank everyone for helping Crista with Hugs for Haiti. She has learned so much through this amazing experience. We are proud to say that almost 3,000 children will have something to hug during this difficult time. Crista and I appreciate all of the support she has recieved during the animal drive:)
Lara (Crista’s momma)