In a world where stress and anxiety have become commonplace, a unique initiative is bringing smiles and comfort to thousands of people. The Peptoc Hotline, a project initiated by West Side Elementary School in Healdsburg, California, offers uplifting messages and life advice from kindergarteners to anyone who dials in.
The Birth of Peptoc
The Peptoc Hotline is the brainchild of art teachers Jessica Martin and Asherah Weiss. The project was born out of a desire to bring joy back into the lives of their students, who had endured stressful circumstances such as wildfires and the COVID-19 pandemic. The teachers were inspired by the resilience their students displayed and decided to share their positivity with the world.
How it Works
When callers dial 707-873-7862 (707-8PEPTOC), they are greeted by a menu of options, each leading to a different set of messages recorded by the students. The options range from words of encouragement for those feeling mad, frustrated, or nervous, to life advice, pep talks from kindergarteners, and even children laughing with delight. The hotline also offers encouragement in Spanish.
The Impact
The Peptoc Hotline, which went live in February 2022, quickly gained popularity, receiving more than 8,000 calls per hour. The project has touched millions of people worldwide, providing comfort during challenging times such as the pandemic and the war in Ukraine. The hotline has received letters from cancer patients, emergency ward staff, and children who needed a pick-me-up after a difficult day, testifying to its positive impact.
Supporting Peptoc
The success of the Peptoc Hotline has led to a surge in donations to keep the project running. On days when the hotline receives millions of calls, the fees can exceed $20,000. However, thanks to generous donations, the hotline can continue to spread joy 24 hours a day. Any excess funding will go towards the school’s enrichment programs, which were significantly cut after the pandemic. To support the Peptoc Hotline, donations can be made through their GoFundMe page.
The Future of Peptoc
The project has also inspired schools worldwide to replicate the motivational posters and messages in their own languages, spreading the initiative’s positive impact even further.
In conclusion, the Peptoc Hotline is a testament to the power of positivity and the resilience of children. It serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, a simple message of encouragement can make a world of difference.
