NASHVILLE – Vanderbilt will host the 2018 Teddy Bear Toss on Saturday, December 15 at halftime of the Commodores’ women’s basketball game against Central Michigan at Memorial Gymnasium.
But, what is the Teddy Bear Toss?
The event, in which fans can toss teddy bears onto the court at halftime, benefits the Monroe Carroll Jr. Children’s Hospital and The Salvation Army. It offers families an opportunity to enjoy the holiday with their children despite spending it in the hospital.
“We are able to provide a holiday experience to these families even though they are spending the holiday in the hospital,” explained Erin Rothwell, senior administrative assistant for child life and volunteer services at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital. “It can be very moving for many of our families. A common thing we hear from them is, ‘We didn’t think we were going to be able to do a Christmas this year.’ Our donations make that possible.”
Families admitted to the hospital about three days out from and including Christmas are welcome to go through donated items, free of charge, and select gifts for their child in the hospital and their siblings.
Fans can purchase a new teddy bear at the team store at the game. It will immediately be wrapped and donated to Monroe Carroll Children’s Hospital. Fans can also bring a new teddy bear to toss onto the court at the game to be donated to the Salvation Army.
“We wouldn’t be able to provide this amazing experience for families without the help of our generous community, including the folks coordinating and participating in the Teddy Bear Toss,” Rothwell stated.
