Erica Stephens Teddy Bear Project

12/02/2025

On this Giving Tuesday would you consider giving to the Erica Bear Project to help keep this project alive!

Did you know that Baptist Health Richmond gives out around 900 Erica Bears each year to all 1st grade students in Madison County during the Teddy Bear Fair? At this special event, kids learn about hospital equipment, procedures, and what to expect if they ever need medical care, helping reduce fear and build confidence if they ever need to visit the hospital.

These bears are given completely free to each child, and we need your help to keep this tradition going.

✨ Would you consider donating to the Erica Stephens Teddy Bear Project? ✨

Your donation will help us continue providing bears, comfort, and education to children in our community for years to come. No amount is too small, and your gift is tax-deductible.

08/04/2025

Do you have one of the original Erica Bears or a newer model? We would love to hear how the Erica Bear impacted your life! Leave us a comment or story below. ❤️🧸❤️

07/01/2025

Did you know that Baptist Health Richmond gives out around 900 Erica Bears each year to all 1st grade students in Madison County during the Teddy Bear Fair? At this special event, kids learn about hospital equipment, procedures, and what to expect if they ever need medical care, helping reduce fear and build confidence if they ever need to visit the hospital.

These bears are given completely free to each child, and we need your help to keep this tradition going.

✨ Would you consider donating to the Erica Stephens Teddy Bear Project? ✨

Your donation will help us continue providing bears, comfort, and education to children in our community for years to come. No amount is too small, and your gift is tax-deductible.

06/18/2025

The Erica Stephens Teddy Bear Project was established in 1981 in loving memory of Erica Stephens, daughter of Bob and Kay Stephens, who passed away from a congenital heart condition. Created to honor her life and legacy, the fund brings comfort and reassurance to young children during what can often be an unfamiliar or intimidating experience.

Since its founding, the Teddy Bear Project has provided thousands of teddy bears to children to ease the emotional stress associated with hospital environments. These cuddly companions offer comfort and help create positive early associations with healthcare, reducing fear and anxiety about medical visits.

Today, the fund carries on this meaningful mission through a beloved tradition: each year, Baptist Health Hospital in Richmond, Kentucky, distributes teddy bears to every first-grade student in Madison County Schools. This effort helps raise awareness about hospitals, healthcare workers, and the importance of caring for our health—all while celebrating the spirit of compassion inspired by Erica.

We are currently raising funds to continue this special tradition and expand our impact. Your donation—big or small—helps us provide teddy bears to even more children as a gentle introduction to the hospital experience. All donations to the Erica Stephens Teddy Bear Fund are tax-deductible, and every dollar helps us continue spreading Erica’s legacy of love, education, and care.

Please consider making a contribution today and help us keep this heartwarming tradition alive for years to come. supportbaptisthealth.org
Donate under Richmond and Mission Advancement - in honor of “Erica Bear Project” when you contribute!