On Friday, August 22, 2025, the Teddy Bear Project joined hands with SLACO, https://slaco-mo.org/ an after-school program serving lower-income children in St. Louis Missouri City Schools, for a very special afternoonof comfort and care.
Just three months earlier, on May 16, a devastating tornado tore through St. Louis, leaving behind damaged homes, schools, and countless shaken hearts. Many of the children in SLACO's program were directly impacted—losing not only their sense of normalcy but also the safe spaces they depend on.
On this day, however, hope and healing came in the form of something simple, soft, and deeply meaningful: Teddy Bears!
With smiles that grew brighter with every hug, about 30 schoolchildren received their very own teddy bears, each one a symbol of love, safety, and resilience. For some, it was their first new comfort item since the storm. For all, it was a reminder that they are not alone—schoolchildren from North Carolina wrote notes of support and encouragement accompanying each bear, many of these children having experienced their own personal losses during Hurricane Helene last fall. Children, who they may never meet in person, see them, care for them, and are standing beside them as they rebuild.
The children's gratitude filled the room. Laughter mixed with hugs, and the simple act of giving a teddy bear became a powerful moment of connection and reassurance.
We are deeply thankful to SLACO for their partnership and to everyone who makes the Teddy Bear Project possible. Together, we are helping children heal, one teddy bear—and one hug—at a time. for details!
