What started out as Mitzvah Day at B'Nai Israel in Albuquerque turned into a widespread project to help children who experience or witness domestic abuse. Diane Chodorow, a member of the congregation and a former victim's advocate for the district attorney's office, and Gerri Gordon, a crafts enthusiast, thought teddy bears would be a useful item for police and advocates to give to children at scenes of domestic violence.

The two started a class on making stuffed bears, using an easy pattern from felt. Knitters and an embroidery guild joined in the effort and the bears started arriving at Resources Inc., which provides help for victims of domestic violence.

Children at domestic violence scenes receive a totebag with a teddy bear, a "Sammy the Safety Dinosaur" coloring book (with 911 and other safety information), and crayons.

The bears provide comfort to both the children and to the people creating the stuffed animals. Donating handmade bears gives participants a sense of giving a part of themselves.  

While the group is asking for homemade bears, they will accept those bought from the store "with love," as well as donations of crayons. Bears must fit into a tote bag.

Take bears to the Jewish Federation of Greater Albuquerque office, 5520 Wyoming NE. Call 821-3214 for more information and someone will return your call.