The community’s help is sought to collect teddy bears and stuffed animals for Fairfield Glade United Methodist Church’s annual celebration of Teddy Bear Sunday on Mother’s Day, May 11.
This collection campaign is part of the church’s ministry to support children and senior citizens needing comfort, said Lin Marten, one of the event’s organizers.
“Every year, the congregation brings in stuffed animals — any stuffed animal with a friendly face, not just teddy bears,” she said. “This idea originated over 20 years ago to supply the local hospital with stuffed animals that could be used to comfort children in crisis or who are facing surgery.”
It has been expanded over the years to help other agencies serving children in crisis. These agencies include but are not limited to House of Hope, the Avalon Center, Crossville Housing Authority, Court-Appointed Special Advocates and law-enforcement agencies.
Marten said the congregation expanded the ministry after learning about seniors who are often isolated and sometimes in stages of dementia, including in nursing homes.
“We need your help by donating stuffed animals (new or gently used) or monetary donations,” Marten said, explaining that the church will use all money donated toward this cause to shop for stuffed animals and teddy bears to supply the ministry.
“The hospital alone is now doing well over 1,000 pediatric surgeries a year, so we need help in supporting all of those children!” Marten added.
The preferred size for these stuffed animals is 12 to 18 inches. Shoe-box size is also accepted and can be used in the church’s support of Operation Christmas Child through Samaritan’s Purse.
“But most of our donations stay within Cumberland County,” Marten said.
Drop off donations at Fairfield Glade United Methodist Church, 231 Westchester Drive, the week before Mother’s Day. Donations may be placed in a bin on the portico in front of the church or taken to the church office. Those who have a number of stuffed animals to donate may arrange to have them picked up by calling 931-484-3473.