In early December, Spring Run School teamed up with Telcordia Pioneers in an effort to dress teddy bears that were distributed to children in need, physically and/or financially, for the holidays. Telcordia Pioneers, a volunteer network has maintained this project for many years. They purchase teddy bears and then have individual volunteers select attire and dress a bear to their liking. Some bears may therefore be dressed in sporting wear while others may don a hand-crocheted dress. The outfit selections are as diverse as our population making each bear as unique as can be. Once outfitted, bears are given to children in need through such organizations as Helping Hands which helps parents who cannot afford to give presents to their children, C.A.S.A. for children in the court system, Piscataway P.B.A. for distribution to Ronald McDonald House and foster children, St. Claire’s In-Patient Pediatric Unit and Children’s Crisis Intervention Service.
Telecordia originally purchased over 300 bears for this project, and then due to an overwhelming response, they had to order 150 more. The students and staff of Spring Run School (SRS), a private secondary special education school in Flemington, NJ, dressed 25 bears. Outside of the Pioneers, Spring Run was the largest group involved. Everyone who dressed a bear had an enjoyable time doing so. There was a particular challenge in finding clothing that fits a teddy bear appropriately. Baby clothing, doll clothing or homemade outfits work best. Then, is the task of having your gift bear reflect a little something of the giver. The bear may become a princess, a cowboy, a baby, or holiday themed in seasonal colors. Either way, they all delight the children who receive them! Rosemary Bahrenburg, Life Member Project Leader with Telecordia Pioneers pointed out how the recipients are “amazed that total strangers are thinking of them at Christmas.” She also resounds gratitude to John Ritchie, Principal at SRS, Linda Harris, and Ann King for their efforts in the success of this project.
Pictured with the bears they dressed at Spring Run School in Flemington, NJ: Justin, Yeris, Sarah, Kemar and ______. 12/2009
For more information about Spring Run School, please contact John Ritchie, Principal, (908) 782-1480 Ext. 226 or e-mail jritchie@ceaemployment.com.
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