Parents from Dobbs Ferry are finding ways to involve local children in spreading smiles and comfort amongst the immigrant children in their community that have been separated from their families.

The response comes after the community learned of the children being housed at the Children’s Village, a federally funded foster care system that provides children with resources such as boarding and recreational and medical centers. 

Groups of all ages have since come together to make toiletry kits filled with necessities like combs, toothpaste and soap for the children. Children in the community have also made colorful drawings and messages of welcome to be delivered to the facility.

"It doesn't replace the presence of their parents and nothing can,” said organizer Sue Galloway. “But to feel that there's other people who are caring about them hear in this moment - that's what we'd like to do."

The organizers say they hope this effort will teach their children to always give back and make a difference the best way they can.