SASKATOON — The TeleMiracle office in Saskatoon was dubbed the "fast and furry-ous" for two weeks in June after 6,500 TeleMiracle Teddy Bears arrived and were subsequently sorted, packaged and shipped to donors.
Those making a donation of $149 or more during the TeleMiracle 49 telethon could request a bear, affectionately named Betty by the TM 49 chairperson.
Michael McCrea, marketing and communications specialist with the Kinsmen Foundation, says, “Bears have been part of our fundraising initiatives since TeleMiracle 19 in 1995.”
Each year, a new bear is designed and revealed just prior to the TeleMiracle weekend.
The paw-sitive work party makes sure each package is stuffed with love as the bear hugs head out to donors. McCrea says volunteers who unpack the shipment, sort, package and send off these bears come from multiple corporate partners and Kin clubs volunteers.
The popularity of TeleMiracle Teddy Bears grows each year. The bears are a tangible reward for donating to the annual Kinsmen Foundation telethon and encourage people to contribute to the cause.
The bears represent the spirit of giving and community support associated with TeleMiracle, and donors feel a sense of connection to the cause and the people they are helping by receiving a bear.
Each year’s unique design has made these bears a desirable collector’s item, adding to their popularity. Teddy bears are often associated with childhood comfort and security, appealing to a wide audience with their yearly unveiling.
Next up at the TeleMiracle office will be wrapping up TeleMiracle 49 and shifting gears to an exciting golden anniversary, as TeleMiracle will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026.
