How it works

Every Paper Hug is reviewed, handwritten with real ink, and mailed to a participating organization.

  1. 1

    Choose who you want to encourage

    Pick from eight recipient categories and a state (or 'Anywhere').

  2. 2

    Write a short message

    Up to 500 characters. Keep it warm and simple. Sign it however you like.

  3. 3

    We review it

    A person reads every message before it's ever written. No exceptions.

  4. 4

    A real handwritten letter is mailed

    Written in real ink and mailed to a participating community or facility.

  5. 5

    Someone receives a reason to smile

    The facility distributes letters to residents or patients who could use one.

A few important things

  • You'll never see the recipient's name or address. Letters go to a participating facility, who distributes them.
  • Letters are one-way. Recipients don't reply.
  • No photos, no personal contact information, no requests for a reply.
  • Every message is reviewed before it becomes a letter.