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Girl Hugging Tedding Bear

Now accepting May Drop Spots!

Become a Drop Spot

10,088

stuffed animals donated
since March 2025

Austen’s Huggable Heroes is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by 8-year-old Austen with one big belief: every kid deserves comfort and connection. We collect new and gently loved stuffed animals to bring hugs, hope, and a sense of belonging to children in foster care and shelters throughout Washington, Oregon, and Beyond.

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March Drop Spot:
Farrar's Bistro  Vancouver, Washington

All new stuffed animals will go to support the Chelsea Hicks Foundation, supporting children in hospitals.

Why Stuffed Animals Matter

  • A stuffed animal offers more than just play; it provides comfort, companionship, and emotional security.

  • Research shows that children often form strong attachments to stuffed animals, which can help reduce anxiety and provide a sense of stability during difficult times.

The Overlooked Gift

  • Essentials like clothing and school supplies are vital, but the emotional comfort of a stuffed animal is often overlooked.

  • These soft companions can make a big difference for children facing uncertainty or hardship by offering them a sense of normalcy and hope.

A Hug in Every Donation

  • Donating a stuffed animal means giving more than just a gift—it’s giving a hug, a friend, and a beacon of hope.

  • At Austen’s Huggable Heroes, we aim to ensure no child goes without the comfort and love that a stuffed animal can bring. Together, we can make a difference.

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Get to Know Us

Austen’s Huggable Heroes is a nonprofit founded by 8-year-old Austen with a simple but powerful mission: to bring comfort to children in foster care and shelters through the gift of stuffed animals. Inspired by a cherished stuffed lion that provided comfort in her own family’s story, Austen believes that every child deserves to feel safe, loved, and supported.

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Through community donations, we collect new and gently loved stuffed animals and distribute them to children facing uncertainty. These soft companions serve as more than just toys—they are a source of security, hope, and warmth in challenging times.

 

Join us in making a difference, one hug at a time. Donate, spread the word, or partner with us to bring comfort to kids who need it most.

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Our Ongoing Initiatives

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Donation Drives

Our donation drives collect new or gently used stuffed animals to provide comfort and security to children in foster care and shelters. These treasured items bring a sense of love and warmth during challenging times, making a lasting impact on young lives.

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Become a Huggable Heroes Drop Spot!

Partner with us by hosting a donation box at your business or organization! Becoming a drop spot allows your community to easily contribute stuffed animals to our cause. Together, we can bring comfort and joy to children in foster care and shelters.

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Who Receives the Hugs?

Meet the children and organizations who’ve felt the magic of a stuffed animal at just the right time. These stories shine a light on how your support spreads joy, hope, and healing—one hug at a time.

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