One of the donation programs we have at The Tree House Child Advocacy Center of Montgomery County is through the Purple Sheep Project. Over the years Gabriela and her cause have donated over 1000 bags with stuffed animals and books for other children to have and keep when they come in for care.
What is the Purple Sheep project?
For her fifth birthday, Gabriela made a heartfelt request to her friends: instead of bringing presents for herself, she asked them to contribute books and stuffed animals that could be given to children in need. This simple yet profound act of kindness demonstrated Gabriela’s deep empathy and ignited a chain of events that would touch the lives of many through the “Purple Sheet Project”.
Gabriela and her mother discovered The Tree House Child Advocacy Center of Montgomery County. Because we are dedicated to supporting and assisting child abuse victims in Montgomery County, this made it an ideal choice for Gabriela’s birthday donations.
The Birth of the Purple Sheep Project
With the charity selected and the cause dear to her heart, Gabriela’s birthday party became the starting point for a beautiful tradition. In collaboration with her friends, classmates from St. Louis School in Clarksville, and fellow parishioners of St. Louis, Gabriela encouraged everyone to create drawings. These drawings, along with a stuffed animal and a book, were thoughtfully placed in 37 purple drawstring bags, launching what would be known as the “Purple Sheep Project.” The project took its name from the color of the bags and Gabriela’s beloved stuffed animal, Cordero the sheep.
A Tradition is Started & Continued
Gabriela’s altruism and dedication to helping others did not end with her fifth birthday celebration. As her sixth birthday approached, Gabriela’s commitment only grew stronger. This time, she and her team of compassionate supporters filled nearly 100 bags with love, empathy, and essential gifts for children in need.
When asked about her motivation, Gabriela responded, “If the kids get hurt by the people that hurt them, they can come to the Tree House.” Her explanation reflected her understanding of the challenges faced by those in need and her unwavering determination to make a positive impact in their lives.
The Purple Sheep Project is now going on 10+ years strong and has prepared over 1000 bags for children in Montgomery County. They help promote reading and journaling in the local community, provide stuffed animals so the Tree House clients aren’t lonely, and a bag in case they need to pack up their stuff.
The Impact of the Purple Sheep Project
The Tree House has witnessed firsthand the tremendous impact of the Purple Sheep Project on the children they serve. Children who come in love having toys and learning items to use while at our location, but also to take with them when they leave. Through the Purple Sheep Project, we are connecting children in need with children who want to give to help their local community.
Finding Creative Ways to Give Back
Through the Purple Sheep Project, Gabriela has created a tradition that not only brightens the lives of the recipients but also touches the hearts of everyone involved. Her acts of kindness serve as a testament to the transformative impact that a single person, regardless of age, can have on the world.
As you can see there are many ways to get involved with the mission at The Tree House Advocacy Center of Montgomery County. If you would like to make a donation and/or volunteer to help abused children in Montgomery County, MD please contact us here. We look forward to hearing from you!
