Teddies for Haiti

A few years ago, Doris Tucker and her husband Ray Flynn, spent some time in the St. John’s area, so they could be closer to their grandchildren. 

During her time there, Ms. Tucker became involved with the Women’s Institute.

“We did all kinds of projects from knitting and sewing to crafts,” she said. “One of the many projects that we were active with was the Teddies for Tragedies for the doctors overseas. At our meetings we would spend time knitting these little teddies, which when finished would be shipped to areas of the world where there had been disasters or other Third World or war torn countries.”

And continuing the cause when she got back to Little Bay Islands was also a priority for Ms. Tucker.

“This year, after we became aware of the tragedy in Haiti, I felt it would be a great project for the ladies of Little Bay Islands,” she said.

The tragedy in Haiti is a little closer to home for the residents of Little Bay Islands, as a resident of Springdale, Karen Huxter, has lived there for several years running an orphanage and school. 

Don Huxter, Karen’s brother recently visited Little Bay Islands and made a presentation to the Seniors Wellness Group about the work and relief efforts of his sister. Using a map of Haiti, Mr. Huxter showed those present the area where his sister lives and talked about the devastation felt in that area. He also expressed his thanks to the people who have continued to support the Haitians in their efforts to rebuild their lives.

To date, Ms. Tucker and other women from town have completed about two dozen teddies which will find their way into the hearts of little children.

“Each child gets to keep his or her own teddy so we need a constant supply of them. I would like to encourage more people to take part in this worthy project. As a nurse I have seen the joy and comfort that a stuffed animal gives a sick child,” said Ms. Tucker. 

The completed teddies were presented to Mr. Huxter who will arrange for them to get to his sister in Haiti.

Sheila Lyons, a visitor from Montreal who attended the Seniors Wellness Group, stated, “the teddies are lovely. What a great idea. It is wonderful that the women have made them for the little children.”

Ms. Tucker kindly supplied the pattern for knitting the teddies and encourages anyone who can knit to participate in this worthwhile cause. She can be contacted at tuckerdoris@hotmail.com.