Crossville, Tenn. – The teddy bears were on parade at Good Samaritan – Fairfield Glade on Sept. 9. Generous donors made possible the distribution of the furry friends.
“One of the biggest challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic is our inability to hug everyone we care deeply about,” said Frank Horvath, development officer. “We felt that giving each resident a teddy bear with a note could put a smile on their faces.”
The nursing staff came up with the idea to distribute the bears on National Teddy Bear Day. The appeal to donors was simple: help fund 85 bears – one for each person in the assisted living and skilled nursing buildings.
“With visitor restrictions in place to protect the health and well-being of residents, we are constantly finding ways to combat boredom and loneliness,” Horvath said.
“The bears were a perfect fit,” said Brandon Newman, administrator. “I am so grateful for our creative nursing staff and our generous donors.”
Employees delivered the bears with a special message attached:
"Our hope is when you receive this teddy bear today, you will remember you are loved and therefore you can live knowing you are loved by the Almighty God, by your family, your staff, and many others!"
You can support resident programming like the teddy bear project at the Good Samaritan when you give online.
