The South Bend International Airport kicks off its annual Bears in the Air campaign this week.
Spokesperson Julie Curtis tells us this is the 12th year they’re collecting Teddy bears to be given to children having a rough time during the holidays.
“Being in the hospital during the holidays or any time throughout the year is not something that anybody likes, and definitely not children,” Curtis said. “So, this program was created as a way for us to provide Teddy bears to children in regional hospitals.”
Curtis says the Bears in the Air campaign has made a big difference providing comfort to those kids.
“In the last twelve years, we have provided over 17,000 Teddy bears to children in the region’s hospitals, including at Corewell Health Lakeland.”
Everything begins Tuesday when community leaders in South Bend will drop off the first bears of the year at the Bear Den at the South Bend International Airport.
This Friday will bring the annual party at the airport where funds are raised to purchase more bears. Tickets are $35, and everyone’s invited. You can also donate online.
Curtis says the bears will be distributed to the hospitals the week of December 18.
The Bears in the Air campaign also raises funds for a veterans center in South Bend.
