More than 1900 newly purchased teddy bears have been collected as a result of South Bend International Airport’s (SBN) sixth annual Bears in the Air program. On Wednesday, December 20th team members presented 400 of the bears to Saint Joseph Health System at Plymouth.
The bears will offer companionship and smiles during a child’s difficult time. The hospital will distribute the bears to young patients as they see fit.
“We could not be happier with the results of the Bears in the Air program as we celebrate six years,” said Mike Daigle, SBN Executive Director. “Thanks to our generous community, we have surpassed our goal of 1750 bears. We are touched and grateful.”
The Bears in the Air collection program began on December 1, 2017 when travelers and the general public were invited to donate a newly purchased teddy bear or make a cash donation. The program provides both the donation of teddy bears to children and a cash donation to the Robert L. Miller, Sr. Veteran’s Center. A “Bear Den” inside the terminal served as a collection point for the bears.
