UPDATE: Duluth girl, 8, Gives Christmas Away
Several weeks ago, we told you about 8-year-old Anna Stanley’s idea to Give Christmas Away by donating Build-A-Bear stuffed animals to children served by the Duluth Salvation Army instead of receiving Christmas gifts for herself.
On Saturday, she finished the final stage of her plan by building 16 stuffed animals at the Build-A-Bear inside Miller Hill Mall (see photos).
“Other people that don’t have Christmas … have to have a Build-A-Bear to snuggle with,” Anna told the local Fox News affiliate (watch Fox clip).
Although Anna was happy to get lots of much media attention (watch ABC News clip), fame has never been her objective.
“When I told Anna that people can see Jesus in her heart in all of this, that’s the part that got her,” said Anna’s father, Ken Stanley. “She couldn’t care less about the notoriety.”
Indeed, Ken is one proud father.
“I’ve cried a couple times,” he added. “Anna already wants to start saving for next year. Hopefully she’ll be making two or three times more bears next Christmas.”
Anna purchased six of the bears with her own money, with Build-A-Bear donating the remaining 10. The toys will be given to the Duluth Salvation Army in time for other children to receive for Christmas. (You can donate new, unwrapped toys now through Dec. 17)
Anna wants other kids to have a Build-A-Bear stuffed animal because the store is her favorite place on earth.
“She dreams about it,” said Anna’s step-mom, June Stanley. “The other night she said she dreamed she was locked inside the store overnight. She is obsessed with this place.”
Anna’s generosity has rubbed off on her 17-year-old brother, Josh Stanley (pictured). While she was busy building her own bears, Josh purchased and donated a bear of his own, using money he earned from his paper route.
“It makes me proud to help out kids who don’t have toys,” Josh said.
You have the same power to help children this holiday season. To unleash it, join The Salvation Army and Give Christmas Away.