Annual Teddy Bear Campaign to support much-needed equipment for pediatric patients
The Kingston General Hospital Auxiliary, in partnership with Unity Savings and Credit Union, today launched its 2011 Show Children You Care Teddy Bear Campaign to support the purchase of much-needed patient care equipment for the pediatric program. The seasonal campaign also provides hospitalized children with a plush teddy bear to help make their stay in hospital more comfortable.
Individuals, community groups and businesses are asked to sponsor plush teddy bears for $100 each during the six-week fundraising campaign. This year’s proceeds will help buy three pieces of equipment: a transcutaneous bilimeter (a screening tool that measures neonatal jaundice and allows for less drawing of blood which can often cause pain and trauma to the baby) and two intravenous IV infusion pumps (to efficiently infuse minute amounts of medication in a timely manner with minimal interruption).
“Being able to provide the best in patient and family-centred care means having the best equipment to enhance that care,” says Pediatric Program Operational Director Kellie Kitchen. “We are grateful to the KGH Auxiliary for sponsoring this annual campaign to purchase items that support our programs and services.”
The KGH Auxiliary hopes to sell 250 bears and raise $25,000 during the six-week campaign. Each bear sold will be adorned with a tag acknowledging the donor(s). Sponsors will receive a charitable receipt upon request and a small companion bear as a token of thanks, which they are welcome to donate back to hospitalized children.
“Your support of the Show Children You Care Teddy Bear Campaign will both enhance the medical care for young patients and ensure all children receiving treatment will receive a plush bear at a time when they need a little extra comfort,” says Teddy Bear Committee Member Alberta Saunders.
Unity Savings & Credit Union kick started the campaign by donating $4,000 to help cover administration costs. This ensures that all money raised from the sale of the bears goes directly to hospital equipment.
To purchase a bear, drop by the KGH Auxiliary Office or call 613-549-6666 ext. 6352.
November 15, 2011