enCourage Kids Foundation (EKF) set a fundraising goal of sending 250 pediatric patients an enCourage Kids Bear. Being admitted to a hospital can be terrifying for a child. To support children going through this experience, the enCourage Kids Bear will be distributed to children receiving care at NYC hospitals to coincide with American Heart Month. EKF has received requests for thousands of Bears from more than 25 facilities in NYC and is proud to provide some of the hospitals on its waitlist with impactful support. Every $25 donated sends a Bear to a sick child.
Who doesn’t love a Teddy Bear, and especially one that lends a hand to hold through a tough procedure or for medical play? How about one that helps pediatric patients prepare for medical experiences like getting an IV, or one that has its arm wrapped in a bandage, gets stitches, or wears a mask to emulate a child’s experience? The enCourage Kids Bear is instrumental in reducing anxiety and fear in children while in the hospital.
“February is a heart month and a great reminder of bringing joy and love to others. Teddy’s smiling face gives hospitalized children a sense of comfort and relief, and keeps kids company through surgeries, doctor visits, IV inserts, and any other overwhelming experience,” said Michele Hall Duncan, President & CEO of EKF.
As COVID-19 lingers, they need our support more than ever. With Teddy in hand, kids have a companion to help them cope with their medical challenges and treatments throughout their hospital stay. The Bear is also a useful tool for easing anxiety by normalizing the healthcare environment and helping prepare young patients for procedures in a child-friendly way. Teddy also encourages play and self-expression, making a difficult hospital experience a little easier. Each Bear comes individually wrapped to meet the strict infection protocols in place.
EKF is proud to serve nearly one million children annually, partnering with 330+ hospital partners nationwide. We provide valuable resources and funding to pediatric hospitals including supplies, equipment, technology, and physical enhancements. Together, our activities, programs, and funding close the gap between available medical care and young patients’ emotional and physical needs during stressful times.
