ANDERSON TOWNSHIP, Ohio -- Where others see a lost cause, Grandma Cozy sees potential.
Jerilyn Saba -- nicknamed "Cozy" by her parents -- transformed her home into a workshop to refurbish toys for children in need.
Saba takes what she finds at thrift stores and yard sales and makes them like new. She said she has created more than 500 baskets of toys and other children's items this year and aims to make it 800 by Christmas.
I just see these situations where these families really need help and support and ... I wish I could do more," she said. "There are so many kids that are just ripped out of their home with just the shirt on their back -- with nothing."
Saba doesn't need a special occasion. That's why the children call her Grandma Cozy.
"It's just fun for them to get something for them unexpected," she said.
Grandma Cozy said she has already donated hundreds of baskets to Beech Acres Parenting Center and Jack's Closet.
"A lot of times, we're working with parents who have some pretty significant circumstances, so this allows us to help them find som joy and some happiness along their journey," said Jennifer Wikette, the eary childhood director at Beech Acres.
Keishaira Brown received a gift for expectant mothers from Grandma Cozy.
"She definitely puts her heart into it," Brown said.
Saba is looking for donations of items including dolls, teddy bears, large and medium baskets, crayons, coloring books, toys, child-size blankets or throws and some baby items. Anyone interested in donating can email her at cozy1943@yahoo.com.
"Somebody cares," she said. "It's simple. Somebody cares."
