Perry's Plushies
for Pediatrics
Every Kid Deserves a Friend
We provide stuffed animals & emotional support to hospitalized children in need
...because every child deserves a friend!
"We will be friends forever,
just you wait and see."
-Winnie the Pooh
About Me
Hi! My name is Perry Hingsbergen and am the founder of Perry's Plushies, which provides stuffed animals and friendship to children in underserved hospitals in Chicago and Seattle.
I created my company in 2021, after I underwent knee reconstructive surgery.
As I waited to be wheeled off to surgery, I felt completely overwhelmed and frightened.
My mother pulled out my favorite childhood toy, Mr. Lemur, from her purse,
and as I held him against my cheek,
a soothing wave of nostalgia washed over me.
I was surprised how my old plushie could bring such comfort.
I later learned that stuffed animals support mental wellness
by reducing stress, anxiety and loneliness.
I met many young patients in my hospital ward and could not fathom how they deal with such stress.
After this experience, I decided to find a way to help them, and Perry's Plushies was born.
Mr. Lemur symbolizes Perry’s Plushies' mission: to provide hospitalized children with emotional support through a special soft friend.
Many patients, one community
Perry's Plushies main partnership is with La Rabida Children's Hospital. Located in Chicago's South Side, the hospital serves children with long-term medical conditions and disabilities as well as victims of child abuse and gun trauma. Most patients are hospitalized for long periods of time, and their families cannot afford to stay with them.
I personally gift each child with a plushie of his or her choice,
along with my support and friendship because
Every Kid Deserves a Friend.
Over 1000 plush friends gifted
Thank you to our generous donors
at schools, churches and toy stores!
Perry's Plushies has expanded outreach to Seattle.
Please contact me if you would like to join my team!