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Girl Hugging Tedding Bear

Now accepting 2026 Drop Spots!

Become a Drop Spot

2,304

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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Stuffy Play Day
Stuffy Play Day
118 days to the event
Sat, Sep 13
Felida Community Park
Join us for an afternoon of joy, play, and purpose! Created by 8-year-old Austen, Stuffy Play Day is a chance for kids and families to connect with their neighbors and community and have some fun!

May Drop Spots

  • Kindred Vancouver
    Kindred Vancouver
    Kindred Vancouver
    Thu, May 01
    Vancouver
  • Drip Drop Art Studio
    Drip Drop Art Studio
    Drip Drop Art Studio
    Thu, May 01
    Vancouver
  • Barre3 Felida
    Barre3 Felida
    Barre3 Felida
    Thu, May 01
    Felida
  • Contrarian Gaming
    Contrarian Gaming
    Contrarian Gaming
    Thu, May 01
    Vancouver
  • Hooligans Sports Bar & Grill
    Hooligans Sports Bar & Grill
    Hooligans Sports Bar & Grill
    Thu, May 01
    Hooligans Sport Bar and Grill
  • Neon Momo
    Neon Momo
    Neon Momo
    Thu, May 01
    Hillsboro

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.

Girl with Teddy Bear

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.

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.

🧸 Get involved today!

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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