Creating Community: A Safe Space for Minority High School Students
Help me give my students a space where they feel safe and relaxed and can be themselves!
$294 goal
This project expired on August 22, 2025.
This project expired on August 22, 2025.
My Project
As a school social worker, I have the privilege and honor of supporting students from diverse, often under-resourced backgrounds. Many of my students from low-income, minority communities face chronic stress due to financial instability, family challenges, and systemic barriers. These factors take a toll on their mental health and overall well-being, often making it difficult to focus on learning or build positive relationships at school.
That’s why creating a safe, calming space filled with intentional, supportive resources is so important.
Items like weighted stuffed animals and fidgets may seem simple, but they serve as powerful tools for emotional regulation. Weighted animals provide gentle, comforting pressure that can ease anxiety and promote a sense of safety—especially for students who have experienced trauma. Fidgets offer a quiet, non-disruptive outlet for students coping with anxiety, attention difficulties, or sensory needs. These items help them stay present and grounded throughout the day.
Additionally, the environment itself plays a key role. Thoughtful office décor—like picture frames for art and a mirror with inspirational quotes—can transform a traditional space into one that feels welcoming and emotionally safe. These small touches remind students that they are valued, seen, and supported.
An inspirational mirror, in particular, help build self-esteem and encourage students to see themselves in a positive, affirming light (literally!).
Your support can help me create this essential space of comfort and care. These resources not only help students cope with their daily challenges, but also empower them to build resilience, focus on their education, and grow emotionally. By contributing, you’re investing in more than just items—you’re investing in the mental health and futures of young people who need it most. Thank you for considering a role in this important work.
More than half of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
350 students impacted
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[2-Pack] Kids Art Frames, 8.5x11 Front Opening Kids Artwork Frames Changeable, Dark Blue Artwork Display Storage Frame for Wall, Holds 50 Pcs, for 3D Picture, Crafts, Children Drawing, Hanging Art,
• Amazon Business
$26.99
1
$26.99
[2-Pack] Kids Art Frames, 8.5x11 Front Opening Kids Artwork Frames Changeable, Light Lake Blue Artwork Display Storage Frame for Wall, Holds 50 Pcs, for 3D Picture, Crafts, Children Drawing, Hanging
• Amazon Business
$26.99
1
$26.99
ronivia Duck Weighted Stuffed Animals, 17" 3.5 lbs Weighted Duck Plush Toy Large Weighted Plush Animal Pillow Gifts for Boys and Girls
• Amazon Business
$24.99
1
$24.99
Weighted Stuffed Animal for Anxiety | Calming & Comforting 5 Lbs | Weighted Plush Animal Sloth | Anxiety Stuffed Animals for Adults & Kids | Carrying Bag Included | Machine Washable Weighted Plushie
• Amazon Business
$24.95
1
$24.95
warmies Microwavable & Weighted Stuffed Animals, Blue Monster - Heated Stuffed Animal Plushie for Warmth & Comfort - Cute Soft Plush Toys for Adults & Children (Boys, Girls, Babies & Toddlers)
• Amazon Business
$23.95
1
$23.95
Disney Princess Moana Pua 2-pound Weighted 14-Inch Plush Stuffed Animal, Pig, Kids Toys for Ages 3 Up by Just Play
• Amazon Business
$17.99
1
$17.99
80Pcs Party Favors for Kids 4-8, Kawaii Squishies Mochi Squishy Toy Bulk Fidget Sensory Toys Birthday Gifts for Boys Girls Goodie Bag Christmas Stocking Stuffers Treasure Box Classroom Prizes
• Amazon Business
$16.99
1
$16.99
KIDS PREFERRED Harry Potter Dobby Plush Weighted Stuffed Animal The Lovable House Elf Holding His Iconic Sock for Babies, Toddlers, and Kids 15 inches
• Amazon Business
$14.99
1
$14.99
Schylling NeeDoh Mac 'N' Squeeze - Sensory Squeeze Toy - Contains 4 Squishy Noodles - 3" Wide - Color May Vary (Pack of 1)
• Amazon Business
$7.00
2
$14.00
You Got This Mirror Vinly Decal Inspirational Quote Motivational Vinyl You Got This Sticker Bathroom Mirror Decor Wall Vinyl, Black, 11x2 inch
• Amazon Business
$9.90
1
$9.90
Schylling NeeDoh Dream Drop - Sensory Squeeze Toy with Dreamy Smooth Squeeze - 3" Tall - Color May Vary (Pack of 1)
• Amazon Business
$8.15
1
$8.15
JEOYOO Make Up Wall Mirror, Thick 0.12", 12"X12" X1pcs, Unbreakable Plexiglass Makeup Mirror Tiles, Flexible Mirror Sheets Wall Stickers,Frameless Small Mirror, Over The Door Wall-Mounted Sticker
• Amazon Business
$5.99
1
$5.99
Materials cost
$215.88
Vendor shipping charges
FREE
Sales tax
$0.00
3rd party payment processing fee
$3.24
Fulfillment labor & materials
$30.00
Total project cost
$249.12
Suggested donation to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
$43.96
Total project goal
$293.08
Our team works hard to negotiate the best pricing and selections available.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Ms. P. and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
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