Scrappy Pets project comforts children in crisis

For Venture Academy sophomore Lyric Van Eaton, a classroom sewing assignment became something far more powerful.

Van Eaton discovered that creating stuffed animals was not only relaxing but also a way to help children facing difficult circumstances. The project began as an assignment designed to teach students sewing and art design skills. It quickly grew into a community service effort that now benefits children served by Safe Passage. This agency serves survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking, and child abuse in North Idaho.

“I ended up making two stuffed animals,” Van Eaton said. “One for me and one for the kids of Safe Passage. It will be nice for them to have something since they’re going through a lot.”

Van Eaton said the process of sewing helped her unwind after stressful days and allowed her to express her creativity.

“I think the stuffed animals are cute,” she said.

The project uses scrap fabric and recycled materials to create the handmade toys, known as “Scrappy Pets.” Venture Academy launched the Scrappy Pet Adoption Center to help students give back while learning practical skills.

“Our goal is to create 500 pets annually to support children served by Safe Passage and to engage the community in donating supplies or helping make the pets,” said Lena Cooley, an art teacher at Venture Academy. “Scrappy Pets will be available at Safe Passage offices for children whose families are participating in interviews, counseling, or intervention services.”

Safe Passage conducts more than 300 child forensic interviews each year. All services are provided free of charge and remain completely confidential, said Nicole Hammons, the organization’s development director.

“Whether a child is being interviewed, receiving counseling, or accompanying a parent to services, each child will receive their own Scrappy Pet to provide comfort during a difficult time,” Hammons said. “Children can color their pet’s house, complete an adoption certificate, and name their new friend, creating a small but meaningful source of safety, stability, and reassurance during moments of trauma.”

The partnership between Venture Academy and Safe Passage helps students connect classroom learning with real-world needs in their community.

“We are so grateful for the opportunity to spend time in our local schools and to build meaningful relationships with students and teachers,” Hammons said. “We hope they never need our services, but we want them to know that we are always here for them.”

She added that small gestures of comfort can make a significant difference.

“When children come to see us, it is often one of the worst days of their lives,” Hammons said. “This is something that can bring them a little bit of joy.”

For Venture Academy senior Elayna Jones, the project reinforces the importance of helping others.

“I thought it would be a really good idea for kids who have trauma to have these stuffed animals,” Jones said. 

Through creativity, compassion, and a few scraps of fabric, Venture Academy students are helping bring moments of reassurance to children who need it most.

Marc Stewart is a marketing and content manager with the Coeur d'Alene School District.