For over 30 years, Health Partners International Canada (HPIC) has used hand-crafted Izzy Dolls instead of foam to pack medical supplies—giving comfort to children while reducing non-recyclable waste around the world. 

Ahead of World Environment Day (June 5), HPIC’s approach offers a practical example of environmental action built into everyday operations. 

The dolls are used as protective packing material, cushioning medical shipments in transit without relying on plastic fillers. Unlike polystyrene—which persists for centuries and contributes to ocean and landfill pollution—Izzy Dolls serve a second purpose. When the medicines reach their destination, they are given to children living through conflict, displacement or other crisis situations, bringing comfort and offering a simple reminder that someone cares. Izzy Dolls are often a child’s first and only toy. 

These small, handmade knitted dolls are created by hundreds of volunteers across Canada. The initiative was inspired by Master Corporal Mark Isfeld, a Canadian peacekeeper whose mother began crafting small dolls for him to give to children he met on missions. After Mark’s death in 1994, the tradition was carried on by his comrades and quickly embraced by organizations like HPIC. Over one million Izzy Dolls have been donated to Health Partners International Canada over the years – each one protecting medicine in transit, then bringing comfort to children around the world. By replacing disposable packaging with something purposeful, HPIC has turned a shipping necessity into a human connection. 

By replacing disposable packaging with Izzy Dolls, HPIC has turned a shipping necessity into a human connection, creating positive environmental and humanitarian impact, one shipment at a time. Find out more at: Craft for HPIC.