HUGS
The HUGS program directly effects 6,000 children in crisis each year through the distribution of huggable bears. The volunteers meet monthly to prepare the bears by sewing PFD fire hats and some vests for bears that are not going to the fire department.
In 1987 the Phoenix fire department requested that ALP give stuffed bears to children in crisis. Through experience they learned that when a child must endure a fire, family death, illness, and other emergencies, that child is in crisis. Having something to hold on to has a calming effect and gives the child a sense of security. This makes it easier for the officials involved to gather information and help meet the needs of the child.
In addition to the PFD Crisis Team, bears are distributed to various other groups including in part, hospitals, homeless shelters, and domestic violence shelters. When a bear is given to a child, it is not intended to be a toy but rather a tool to address the emotional health of that child through offering comfort and support.
In 1987 the Phoenix fire department requested that ALP give stuffed bears to children in crisis. Through experience they learned that when a child must endure a fire, family death, illness, and other emergencies, that child is in crisis. Having something to hold on to has a calming effect and gives the child a sense of security. This makes it easier for the officials involved to gather information and help meet the needs of the child.
In addition to the PFD Crisis Team, bears are distributed to various other groups including in part, hospitals, homeless shelters, and domestic violence shelters. When a bear is given to a child, it is not intended to be a toy but rather a tool to address the emotional health of that child through offering comfort and support.
Our Partner Agencies Include
The Crisis Team of the Phoenix Fire Department
Desert Mission Dental Clinic
Phoenix Children’s Hospital
Interfaith Cooperative Ministries
New Life Center and Maricopa County Hospital.
Since its inception, the program has distributed over 81,000 bears to children in crisis.
Desert Mission Dental Clinic
Phoenix Children’s Hospital
Interfaith Cooperative Ministries
New Life Center and Maricopa County Hospital.
Since its inception, the program has distributed over 81,000 bears to children in crisis.