PALS conducts comfort item drive for Children’s Advocacy Center

Ella Saputra | Conant Crier

PALS club conducts a comfort item drive for the Children’s Advocacy Center to help children healing from abuse.

PALS is conducting an item drive through March 19 for the Children’s Advocacy Center, an organization in Hoffman Estates that provides support services and advocacy for families and children that have suffered abuse in North and Northwest Cook County.

PALS is collecting store-bought and DIY items such as stress balls, fidget spinners, playdough, no-sew blankets, coloring supplies, toys, gift cards, and more. These items were specifically requested by the Children’s Advocacy Center. Donations can be dropped off at the main entrance vestibule where a designated box will be located.

The items will benefit rescued children at the Children’s Advocacy Center as they heal from abuse and trauma. “My hope is to simply spread some joy to the children,” said Emilia Rudzinski, ‘22, one of the students in charge of organizing the PALS drive. “It would truly be wonderful to help bring a smile to someone’s face.”

Not only will the items bring some joy and love into their lives, but also provide them comfort. “Toys can be used simply for having fun, but for these kids the fidgeting gadgets can also be used for bigger issues such as anxiety,” said Sadhana Viswanathan, ‘22, the other student in charge of organizing the PALS drive.

All students and community members are encouraged to participate in the drive as a small act of kindness can go a long way.

“It doesn’t take a lot to make a change,” said Viswanathan. “Just think a five dollar donation is equivalent to skipping on your Starbucks date one time. This is more than enough to put a smile on someone’s face.”

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