The Teddy Bear Effect

Teddy bears are always a good thing, especially when they bring comfort to those who need it most. Inspired by an upcoming presentation, “Margarete Steiff: The Woman Behind the Teddy Bear,” Life Enrichment Director Julie Ann Smolansky launched a community teddy bear drive at Wellington Bay.

Over the following weeks, residents and staff enthusiastically contributed nearly 80 teddy bears, with even guest lecturer Anette Isaacs bringing one to donate. The project sparked an especially heartfelt gesture when one resident requested teddy bears in lieu of gifts for her birthday celebration at Wellington Bay. When a guest asked if he could donate money instead, she responded, “No bear, no food.”

The collected bears were donated to the Neonatal Unit at Wellington Regional Hospital, where they will provide comfort and smiles to families and children during their hospital stay.