Since 2012, the 120 chapters of the National Assistance League organization have planned special projects to promote literacy and a love of reading in their communities.  Members know the importance of giving books to children who might not otherwise have access to them.  More recently, our special literacy efforts have been designated as Action Week projects that are scheduled at the end of February to honor Assistance League’s founder, Anne Banning, on her birthday.

This year, we have many reasons to be excited about our Action Week project, Bedtime Hugs Packages.  The project combines three of our most popular programs:  Hugs pillows, toiletries, and book donations.  Also, we are gratified that many community supporters purchased the needed toiletries and books.  We donated 335 Bedtime Hugs packages to Pre-K and Kindergarten students at 3 schools with the goal of encouraging good bedtime routines.  Each package contains a beautiful Hug pillow, hand-made by the Dunbarton Hugs Team, a Beanie Baby, toothbrush and toothpaste, and the book, The Hug Book.  Even more exciting,  the author of that book, Sue Fliess, has recorded a brief video that teachers can share with the students when they receive their Bedtime Hugs.  Sweet dreams everyone!