FRANKFORT, KY (Nov. 27, 2024) – This Black Friday and extending through Cyber Monday, Kentuckians should be on the lookout for bears – Kentucky State Police (KSP) Trooper Teddy Bears! The annual holiday Trooper Teddy sale kicks off today and extends through Dec. 2. Bears are priced at $20 during this special sale, a 20% discount.
Proceeds from the Trooper Teddy Bear sale support KSP’s Trooper Teddy Project. This initiative provides teddy bears to children who have endured traumatic situations, such as car crashes, sexual abuse or serious illnesses. The project relies solely on donations and bear sales, with all proceeds used to purchase additional bears.
“Britainy and I encourage Kentuckians to support the Trooper Teddy program by adding a bear to your Christmas shopping list,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “By doing so you are helping us spread a little Christmas joy to some kids who really need it.”
The Trooper Teddy Bear Project came to life in December 1989 after former Kentucky First Lady Martha Wilkinson hosted a gala fundraiser at Red Mile Racecourse earlier that summer. The black-tie event raised the needed funds to purchase 2,000 Trooper Teddy Bears. The first allotment of bears included a personal note from Mrs. Wilkinson on each stuffed animal. Since its inception, the program has been a heartwarming part of KSP’s community outreach.
“For decades, the Trooper Teddy Bear has been a beacon of hope for Kentucky children,” said KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr. “We invite the public to support this worthy cause, which honors KSP’s legacy and comforts the youngest members of the commonwealth who may be dealing with trauma.”
Give the gift of comfort this holiday season. Trooper Teddy Bears are available for purchase online and at any KSP Post. Customers may pick up their bears free of charge at a local KSP Post or have them shipped to their home for an additional fee. Please visit the Trooper Teddy website to purchase a bear or make a tax-deductible contribution to the Trooper Teddy Project.
Click this LINK to b-roll of Trooper Teddy Bears.
Photos are screenshots from b-roll of Trooper Teddy.
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