AUSTIN, Texas — Central Texas organizations are working to bring a little comfort to kids going through tough times.
The Austin-Travis County EMS (ATCEMS) Teddy Bear Program stocks ambulances and command vehicles with small stuffed bears for children involved in traumatic events. The program – which operates solely on donations – aims to help calm and comfort children in times of crisis by giving them something tangible to hold.
On Monday, the Central Texas Public Safety Commission donated 500 teddy bears to the program.
“We understand that every time that they [ATCEMS] interact with a child, it is a traumatic event. They’re not there out of joy, but because there’s been a crisis in the home of our children,” said Robert Clark, executive director of the Central Texas Public Safety Commission. “These teddy bears that you see in our hands this morning [are] just one of the ways they will be able to impact the trauma of our youngest residents here in Austin, as they provide the much needed services.”
ATCEMS said in recent years, more than 5,000 children have been involved in crisis situations, with the numbers continuing to grow in Austin-Travis County. The agency said it hopes these stuffed animals will make these experiences a little less scary for kids.
“Your generosity means the most to us. This is really paramount to helping the children we serve. One of the most important things that our medics do is provide comfort during challenging moments to our children,” ATCEMS Chief of Staff Wes Hopkins said. “It might seem like a small gesture, but it makes a huge impact. It makes these children feel calmer, more supported and it lets them know that we’re here for them, but most importantly, that they’re safe.”
ATCEMS officials said Monday’s teddy bear donation is expected to last for two years.