200 Teddy Bears Delivered To Levine Children’s Hospital

CHARLOTTE, NC -- Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte became teddy bear central Tuesday after 200 “Hope” bears were delivered to pediatric patients through a donation by Extended Stay America.

The adorable Hope bear, made by Build-A-Bear Workshop, wears a white hooded shirt emblazoned with the message and a friendly smile. The long-term hotel chain made the “bear drop” at the hospital at 3 p.m. Dec. 12 as part of its ongoing commitment to giving out the cuddly bear it says is a symbol of kindness and comfort.

According to the National Cancer Institute, there are more than 10,000 new cancer cases diagnosed each year in children under the age of 15.

“Extended Stay America - through the support of their guests - is committing to provide 10,000 Hope bears to children's hospitals throughout America with the simple goal of bringing a smile to the face of a child battling cancer,” the hotel chain said on its website detailing its "Give Hope" campaign.

Here’s how you can help:

• For just a $10 donation, a Hope bear can be delivered to a child hospitalized with cancer
• For those who would like to bring Hope home to a friend, family member or loved one, Hope can be ordered and delivered for $19.99
• For each Hope bear purchased, Extended Stay America donates $5 to the American Cancer Society toward pediatric cancer research
• Here is where you can go to donate or purchase.

Photo credit: Extended Stay America