SBN launches 2024 Bears in the Air program this week

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The 13th Annual Bears in the Air Program at the South Bend International Airport kicked off will officially kickoff this Friday, but ABC57 was on location this morning to see the ceremonial first bear donated to the program at the “Bear Den” located in the atrium of the airport.

"The number of bears have been growing from year to year, and the amount of money raised for the Veterans Center has also increased from year to year," said St. Joseph County Airport Authority Board President David Sage. "So, the support continues to grow. You know, when this started, the airport was looking for a way to give back to the community and this year after year after year, this has become a popular event."

The launch party begins at 6 p.m. on Friday and is open to anyone 21 years of age or older. There is a $35 per person entry fee that will provide a teddy bear to a child in an area hospital and assistance to the Veterans at the Robert L. Miller Sr. Veteran’s Center.

Guests will be served small plates, one free drink from the cash bar, music, and door prizes including airline tickets from Allegiant, American Airlines, Breeze Airways, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.

"The public understands what the money goes for and wants to support it, and we at the airport are really pleased to be able to sponsor it and do something for children in the hospitals and for the veterans," Sage said.

"So, we invite people to give a donation if they so choose to, and it's all appreciated. It goes for a good cause. It's a great time. So, people, we invite anybody that's got the time and the desire to come here for this Friday night."