Students at Penson School in Grovedale have donated more than 100 new teddy bears to the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital Foundation (GPRHF). The Student Council-led stuffy drive ran throughout the month of February, inviting students to bring in new teddy bears for the pediatric patients at the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital.

School Principal Mrs. Nicole Gillies says she is thrilled with the results of the stuffy drive, “The idea to host a stuffy drive came directly from the students. It’s been so successful, we hope to make it an annual event.”

Ms. Sally Bellerose from the GPRHF says the organization is extremely grateful for the donation as they work to replenish their stock after the busy Christmas season. “We are always in need of stuffed animals for our patients. This past year we ran low in October, so donations throughout the year are very helpful.” Ms. Bellerose says the Foundation hands out nearly 10,000 stuffed animals to pediatric patients each year.

Penson Student Council is made up of five Grade 7 and 8 students who would like to thank every student and family for helping make the first Penson School Stuffy Drive a success.

Click here to learn about the different ways you can support the GPRHF.

Penson School teddy bear donations March 2023-2 (PWPSD)

(Student Council members from left to right: Carlie Hemerle, Grayson Fedorchuk, Sadie McAusland, Zoe Smith, and Brie Beattie - courtesy Peace Wapiti Public School Division)