Kentucky State Police is inviting Kentuckians to make a meaningful difference by purchasing a Trooper Teddy Bear.
The agency’s Trooper Teddy Valentine’s Day Sale runs through February 16, as the signature teddy bears are priced at only $20.
Each bear purchased helps fund the Trooper Teddy Project, a long-standing program that places teddy bears in the hands of children experiencing traumatic events, including severe illnesses, car accidents, abuse or involvement in critical incidents, Kentucky State Police said in a press release.
The initiative operates solely through charitable contributions and bear sales, ensuring all proceeds directly support the purchase of additional bears.
“The children receiving support from this cause have experienced trauma that no one should have to go through, especially kids” Gov. Andy Beshear said. “The Trooper Teddy Project helps us wrap our arms around our most vulnerable population and can bring peace during some of the most difficult times.”
The Trooper Teddy Project began in December 1989 following a fundraiser hosted by then-First Lady Martha Wilkinson, which raised enough funds to purchase the program’s first 2,000 bears. Since then, Trooper Teddy Bears have become a meaningful part of KSP’s efforts to support children across Kentucky.
“Trooper Teddy Bears allow our troopers to connect with children during some of the most challenging moments they may face,” KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr. said. “This program is about compassion, trust and reminding children that they are not alone.”
Trooper Teddy Bears may be purchased online or in person at any KSP Post. Online orders can be shipped for an additional fee or picked up at a local KSP Post at no cost. One hundred percent of the proceeds from Trooper Teddy sales are used to purchase additional bears to distribute to children in need.
To purchase a bear or make a tax-deductible contribution, visit the Trooper Teddy website.
(Photo: A Kentucky State Police trooper giving a small child a Trooper Teddy Bear, courtesy of KSP)
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
