Autistic Four-Year-Old’s Stuffed Animals Donation: Over 1,000 Toys Collected to Comfort Hurricane Victims

A tiny four-year-old with a big heart organizes a stuffed animals donation drive for Hurricane Helene victims.

Here is a heartwarming tale of Henley Castilon, an autistic four-year-old from Hendersonville, Tennessee.

Henley finds comfort in her stuffed animals during moments of distress on difficult days.

When she heard of Hurricane Helene, which ravaged parts of East Tennessee and Western North Carolina, she thought the kids there must be having a difficult time too.

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To help comfort the kids affected by the hurricane, she decided to donate 30 of her own stuffed animals and toys. When neighbors and friends learned about her drive, they began donating their stuffed toys as well.

Soon, the news exploded as Henley’s little project was shared in a Facebook group called ‘Moms of Hendersonville,’ resulting in donations pouring in from everywhere.

Some people traveled from distant locations to drop off stuffed animals at the designated pick-up points.

Apart from individuals, a small business called Mobley Veterinary Clinic in East Nashville also set up donation points to support this kind cause.

The best part was when they received 600 stuffed animals in just one day. What began as a small donation effort transformed into a massive community drive, all thanks to Henley.

The Castilons are now busy shipping out all the stuffed animals to children in need.

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According to a statement from Henley’s dad, Alex Castilon, to WSMV, despite her challenges and hardships, he is proud that she always thinks of others first.

Henley’s mom, Jennifer Castilon, told WKRN that her daughter was diagnosed with autism a few years ago and initially found it difficult to communicate. However, it’s joyful to see her take such an initiative.

When a young child can empathize with others during times of distress, just imagine the impact we could make if we all began looking out for each other.