(WWJ) — A Metro Detroit non-profit group is on a mission to bring comfort to children going through medical hardships this holiday season.
Bear Hug Detroit, dedicated to comforting children in crisis, has set a goal of delivering 2,000 teddy bears to first responders across Wayne, Oakland and Macomb Counties before Christmas.
The first responders will then be able to give “these comforting companions” to kids in order to “provide a sense of hope and security to children during difficult moments this holiday season.”
The initiative kicks off this weekend with a Teddy Bear Toss at Big Boy Arena in Fraser on Saturday for the Motor City Rockers hockey game against the Port Huron Prowlers.
Fans are encouraged to bring new teddy bears — or buy one at the game — and throw it on the ice after the Rockers’ first goal of the game.
All bears collected from the toss will go directly towards Bear Hug Detroit’s goal of 2,000 teddy bears.
Doors open at 4:05 p.m. and puck drop is set for 7:05 p.m.
“This is our biggest goal yet,” said Holly Hutton, founder of Bear Hug Detroit. “By putting these teddy bears into the hands of first responders, we’re giving children something to hold onto in their toughest moments. It’s a small gesture with a big impact.”
Bear Hug Detroit’s mission will continue on Monday when volunteers will gather at Jungle Java to assemble “Bear Bags,” complete with teddy bears and personalized cards for first responders. Volunteers will also help sort and prepare boxes of teddy bears for delivery.
How You Can Help
• Donate: Drop off new teddy bears at Jungle Java or Toyology stores
• Volunteer: Join at Jungle Java on December 16 to help assemble Bear Bags.
• Sponsor: Businesses or individuals can sponsor Bear Bags, helping cover the cost of supplies and teddy bears.
• Text to Donate: Text BEARHUG to 44-321 to support the mission with a monetary donation.
For more information about Bear Hug Detroit, including how to support this mission, email info@bearhugdetroit.com or visit www.bearhugdetroit.com and follow them on social media at @bearhugdetroit.