As it was—and still is—for many of us, when the COVID-19 virus began ravaging the world, I felt helpless yet still wanted to do something to help. I am not in a position to directly donate money or volunteer in-person time, but the one goal that seemed possible for me was to help children through my writing and illustrating. I’m very happy to have accomplished that by publishing Pippin Pals are Hero Helpers!, 8 diverse/inclusive picture books for young children, but until now wasn’t able to use my creativity to realize one of my hopes: to fund-raise for a pandemic cause.

I’m hoping you will be moved to support a wonderful non-profit organization you may have heard of: CORE. When I first became aware of the amazing work this group does, I was blown away and again wanted to do something. The “something I thought of was to make available Hero Helper t-shirts. I had hand painted several last year as gifts, a few recipients being my granddaughter, my first reader “fan,” and Abigail the Story Teller, the first to read aloud my book.

You can be a Hero Helper by doing all the things that help keep you and others safe, but can also be supportive directly. By purchasing a t-shirt, you not only display to the world your pride in being a Hero Helper, you help these Heroes in their effort to help those who are being severely impacted by the pandemic.

My wish is that, through it all, you stay healthy and safe, and keep holding a “rainbow of hope” in your heart.


With love and gratitude,
:Donna Marie