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s a s k at o o n s ta r P h o e n i x
Saskatoon StarPhoenix marks 10th annual Plush Bears Program JENNIFER JACOBY-SMITH
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eing a kid is tough. For many children in our city the holidays are extra difficult. Each year the Saskatoon StarPhoenix annual Plush Bears Program provides comfort in the form of a soft and cuddly stuffed bear, bringing smiles to little faces even in the most challenging of circumstances. This year marks the 10 th annual Plush Bears Program at the StarPhoenix. Thanks to our major sponsor Saskatchewan Blue Cross and the rest of our sponsors the StarPhoenix will distribute over 600 bears to four different charities making a difference in the lives of children in our community. The Boys and Girls Clubs is a non-profit in Saskatoon and area providing a variety of programs to support children and youth. “We provide a safe, supportive place where children and youth can experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relations and develop confidence and skills for life,” says Bailie Knowles with Boys and Girls Clubs.
The bears will be distributed to children in their Neighbourhood and Mini Clubs. These clubs provide meals and snacks, homework help, physical activities, fun and games – all in a non-judgmental and caring environment. “Due to Covid-19, we aren’t able to host our Christmas party for our children,” says Knowles. “For some, that is their only chance to have a Christmas celebration. With the Plush Bear program, we will be able to give that feeling of Christmas to our kids!” Bears will also go to children at Haven Kids’ House, formerly the Saskatoon Crisis Nursery, which provides housing for children under the age of 12 whose families are in crisis or have no alternatives when they need respite. CUMFI (Central Urban Metis Federation Inc.) works in the core area of Saskatoon to create a better quality of life for Indigenous people. The organization is a national leader in the area of urban Aboriginal issues and challenges. Bears from the Plush Bears program will be given to children in housing programs as well as parents who utilize their food programs.
“The plush bears help with putting a smile on the faces of the children as part of their Christmas gift,” writes Rachelle Tanton from CUMFI. The bears that go to Medavie Ambulance Service are considered a very important tool for paramedics and other emergency personnel as they deal with young clients. “It’s very intimidating for children to be in the back of an ambulance, having these bears helps ease that tension and allows us to assess these children while they are focused on their Plush Bear,” says Medavie’s Troy Davies. The StarPhoenix wishes to thank our many sponsors over the years who have been part of this special program. Your support has given a child in Saskatoon a reason to smile at Christmas and throughout the year. “It’s heart-warming to think of the thousands upon thousands of children who’ve received bears,” says StarPhoenix advertising manager Heath Mulligan. “We’re proud to be the second biggest supplier of bear snuggles in Saskatoon (Santa is still number one!). To our sponsors, partner agencies and all the local businesses and individuals who have
participated: THANK YOU. You’re forever on our ‘NICE’ list!”
From Saskatchewan Blue Cross… In times of need, it’s essential to be there for each other. In this exceptional year, we’re grateful to have supported our community through creative new partnerships. Activations like the Plush Bear Campaign provide a platform to brighten days and build community to help make this the most wonderful time of the year for all. Being an ac tive par t of our communities is an essential part of who we are. We’re proud to be a leader in corporate social responsibility, investing meaningfully in our communities with our time, finances, resources, energy, and spirit to help advance the places we call home. Saskatche wan Blue Cross is proud to be the title sponsor of the Saskatoon StarPhoenix Plush Bear program, providing a furry friend to those in need. On behalf of Saskatchewan Blue Cross we wish you health and happiness this holiday season.
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