The Problem
Save The Chimps cares for many chimpanzees at their sanctuary. We hope to provide some items to feed the chimps and provide enrichment.
Our Plan
We looked at the in-kind donation wishlist of the nonprofit sanctuary, Save The Chimps. Noah Emerson (three years old) collected his old board books for the chimpanzees to enjoy. He also packed a box of raisins and applesauce cups, which he holds very dear! It was a true act of generosity! We also read the chimps enjoy stuffed animals and toddler toys. Noah picked out a stuffed animal to give to the chimps. Our family received many bags of dried yellow split peas, raisins and apple sauce containers through food distributions due to Covid. My husband lost his job at the start of the pandemic, so the food distributions were very helpful for our family. Now that our time of need has passed, we are grateful to be able to share what was shared with us.
Themes Addressed
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Animal Welfare
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Chimpanzees
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Food Insecurity
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Reasons for Hope
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The Benefit
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Animals
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Here is how the project went:
This was such an uplifting project! We have wanted to do something to support Save the Chimps for a while. It was fun gathering all the items and looking for what else we could add to the boxes! I was able to make contact with staff at Save the Chimps and arrange for the boxes to be dropped off in honor of World Chimpanzee Day. This sanctuary is closed to the public, so we knew we wouldn't see the chimps, but we happily drove the hour North and back. Noah Emerson (three years old) was so happy to share! he even drew the chimps a picture!
Through this project I/we learned:
We learned there is always something you can do to help or make a difference. Our family hasn't been in a position to support our favorite organizations financially, but we still found a way to share!
What I/we might change:
Next time, we would like to get more families involved in collecting items. this idea didn't come to us until shortly before World Chimpanzee Day. On our next trip, we will try to collect toys, play equipment and enrichment items for the chimps. Noah Emerson also asked if the chimpanzees liked to color. He wants to collect them art supplies to work with!
My/our favorite part of this project was:
I loved our son's involvement and enthusiasm for sharing with the chimpanzees. He knew we would not be able to see or visit with the chimps, but that didn't dampen his good cheer! On a personal note, it felt really good for our family to be able to give back. Many of the food items we donated were given to us through food distributions due to Covid and Sean's unemployment. Now that we have recovered from that setback, it felt good to pass along what we received! We were able to help community members still in need, but we still had enough for the chimpanzees too!
Some tips, tricks or fun facts about the project:
Check with you local animal shelters, rescue centers and sanctuaries if they have an "in-kind" donation list or an Amazon wish list! Many organizations are open to receiving items you might already have! Not every family has money to donate, but maybe you have something to share.
