The Mentor Mom

California Wildfires: How you can help.

I've been watching the news about the wildfires in California closely.  I don't have any personal friends or family in California, however, my heart is breaking for those who have been affected by this tragedy.

Knock on wood, I have never personally been affected by a fire, but in my years as a social worker, I have met many families who lost it all.  While they were grateful to have escaped with their lives, the fear and uncertainty they had about their future was overwhelming.  To have no clothing, a stable place to lay their head at night, family photos, pets...it is painful to even think about.  Perhaps it is because we all know that it could easily happen to our families.  Scary stuff.

My heart goes out to all of those affected by the wildfires.  I am begging my readers to give back to those who are suffering through this most difficult situation.  Please consider making a contribution or volunteering with the American Red Cross.  For more ways to help, please check out this article in the Los Angeles Times.

Giving Back: Stuffed Animals for Children in Iraq

I just stumbled upon this post at Parent Hack and had to share it with all of you.  As parents, my husband and I are always looking for ways to encourage a giving spirit in our children.  We want them to be generous and empathetic to those in need.  In the past, they have raised money for a variety of different programs including Toys for Tots.  But when I stumbled upon this post at Parent Hacks I knew that I had to share it with all of you. 

My kids have waaaaaayyyyyy too many stuffed animals.  I am always trying to convince them to donate some to Goodwill or a local shelter which they sometimes do.  It doesn't take long, however, for their collections to return to the normal status quo...too many to fit on the bed, in the closet, etc.  So the prospect of getting the collections under control AND help children in need?  We are there!  I have proposed the concept to both kids and they are all over it.  We will be packing up some gently used animals and baby dolls for transport overseas to the arms of their new owners tomorrow. 

As a CPS worker, the agency used to give bears to kids when they were removed from their homes.  Unfortunately, budgetary cuts prohibit this from occurring anymore.  I bring this up because I am well aware of how important transitional objects can be to children in stressful situations.  Perhaps this is why I am particularly drawn towards this type of effort.  I know we'll be taking our boxing to the Post Office tomorrow.  Won't you consider doing the same?