UMM Bless At-Risk Children

A unique program was created to comfort children in difficult circumstances. Caring for Children Inc. is a nonprofit organization dealing with preventative mental health, works with the police department and the social service agencies because of their frequent contact with abused and traumatized children.  United Methodist Men from Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church in Sherrard, WV raised funds to provide over 485 new toy Bears & other stuffed animals for Ohio County Sheriff’s to give to children they encounter in the line of duty. “Caring for Children” President Samantha said “It’s not a toy.  It’s a therapeutic tool.  It gives the child the impression somebody cares.” 

The “Care With Bears” program was started in October of 1987 in the San Francisco Police Department. Lt. Alexander Stevens said that “having an object like a Teddy Bear really gives them a little friend.”