Whiteville Inmates Crochet Over 130 Stuffed Animals for Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital

Each week, inmates in a crochet class at CoreCivic’s Whiteville Correctional Facility in Hardeman County, Tennessee, stitch handmade items to donate to local organizations within the community. 

On Thursday, August 22, 2024, Whiteville Correctional Facility staff, including Warden Chance Leeds and other select team members, visited the Cardiac Care Unit at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital in Memphis. During their visit, they donated over 130 crocheted stuffed animals, lovingly crafted by inmates for the children at the hospital. 

The team set up in the Family Room, where they provided box lunches from Honey Baked Ham and displayed the stuffed animals on a table for the families to choose from. Children, who were well enough to come out, picked their favorite stuffed animals, while parents selected toys for those who remained in their rooms.

The experience was incredibly rewarding for the Whiteville staff, who had the opportunity to engage with the families and medical staff, witnessing firsthand the joy and comfort the stuffed animals brought to the children. The donations extended beyond the Cardiac Care Unit, with enough stuffed animals to reach every floor and every child being cared for at Le Bonheur. 

The Emergency Department also received a portion of the stuffed animals for children who might need extra comfort during their visits, with a commitment from Whiteville to provide more in the near future.

“I make myself learn things that challenge me to do better. It helps me to be more outgoing and do things outside my comfort zone. I am pleased that one of my stuffed animals may put a smile on the face of a child in need,” said Alex Wells, one student-inmate in Whiteville’s crochet class. 

Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital is the only comprehensive pediatric hospital in Memphis and its surrounding region. Amidst their dedication to patient care, the donated stuffed animals serve as a beacon of hope and remind children that they are not alone, but rather cherished by members of their community. 

The crochet class at Whiteville was originally established as a Behavior Modification (BM) course, designed to provide therapeutic and creative benefits to inmates. The program offers participants a constructive outlet, allowing them to contribute positively to the community. In addition to stuffed animals, the class produces a variety of handmade items such as infant hats, booties, and blankets, all of which are donated to various nonprofits and community organizations.

Betty Herron, Crochet Instructor at Whiteville, has been instrumental in leading these projects. “From blankets and beanies to Cooper the dog and stuffed animals, Betty is an incredible asset to the Whiteville team,” said Warden Chance Leeds.

The Whiteville team members who participated in the Le Bonheur visit included Warden Chance Leeds, Assistant Warden Bivens, Assistant Warden Bryant, Chief Kiser, Rec. Supervisor Rayner, Cpt. Nedham, Instructor Betty Herron, Principal James Bailey, Unit Manager Hunt, Officer Robinson, and Business Manager Robinson.

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