KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI) — Knox County Juvenile Court Judge Tim Irwin is once again turning to the community for help, asking residents to donate new stuffed animals for children who appear in his courtroom.
The donations are used to comfort young people facing difficult and often traumatic circumstances. Many of the children who come before the court are involved in abuse, neglect, custody, dependency, or other family-related cases and may be frightened, overwhelmed, or reluctant to speak.
Judge Irwin says he sees firsthand how a stuffed animal can make a child feel safer and more at ease during what can be one of the most stressful moments of their lives.
The Knox County Juvenile Court is located in the Carey E. Garrett Juvenile Court Building at 3323 Division Street, Knoxville, TN 37919.
According to court officials, the stuffed animals are given to children during court proceedings and interactions with court staff. Irwin says the simple act of handing a child a plush toy often helps break down barriers, reduce anxiety, and encourage communication.
The program has a long history in Knox County. Judge Irwin has previously spoken about the impact the toys have on children, many of whom are dealing with abuse, neglect, or family instability through no fault of their own. In past appeals for donations, Irwin noted that children’s faces often light up when they receive a stuffed animal and that the toys help calm them during court proceedings.
Irwin, who serves as Knox County’s Juvenile Court judge, oversees cases involving children and families and has long advocated for approaches that recognize the emotional needs of young people appearing before the court.
Community members wishing to help are encouraged to donate new, unused stuffed animals that can be distributed to children in need. Court officials say the demand remains steady because of the number of young people who come through the juvenile court system each year.
Judge Irwin says the impact is immediate and visible.
For many children entering the courtroom scared and uncertain about what lies ahead, a stuffed animal can provide comfort, security and a reminder that someone cares.
