South Bend Airport kicks off annual “Bears in the Air” program

SOUTH BEND, Ind. – The South Bend International Airport will host their 8th annual “Bears in the Air” program on Friday.

The purpose of the program is to provide kids in area hospitals with toy teddy bears and lift their spirits. The program has received over 9 thousand teddy bear donations in the past 7 years.

The program also raised over $46,000 for the Robert L. Miller Sr. Veteran’s Center in South Bend.

South Bend Cubs, who have been partnered with the Airport since 2012, say that the donations are greatly appreciated.

“It means a great deal,” Joe Hart said, President of the South Bend Cubs. “I mean, it’s the holiday season. There’re a lot of people out there that need a pick me up or need help.”

“Well it helps the Vets at the Robert Miller Veteran’s Center; housing, finding jobs and for the kids to get a bear — that’s just wonderful,” Darrin Gray said, a South Bend resident.

There will be a reception hosted by the Airport on Friday at 6 p.m. for anyone 21 or older.

Entry will cost 20 dollars and the money will go toward a teddy bear for a child in the hospital and donations will also be made to the Veteran’s Center.

Donations will be accepted by the program through December 16. You can donate by visiting Airport Information located in the airport terminal near baggage claim.

Go to the website for the South Bend International Airport to learn more on how you can donate and attend the kick-off party for Bears in the Air.