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Bear Hugs
Women and children are the focus of the Junior League. In general, younger children receive the
attention of many philanthropies. Older teenagers are neglected; specifically those who have been
removed from their homes and placed in protective custody in county facilities or foster homes.
The Bear Hugs project reaches out to those teenagers.
Children are emancipated from county care when they become eighteen. Many of these teens lack the
support systems normally present for teens at a time when they are finishing high school and planning
their futures. Bear Hugs provide these emancipated teens a collection of items to ease the
transition to independent living.
Bear Hugs provides the "bare necessities": a duffel bad filled with essentials such as toiletries,
towel sets and a blanket, stationary supplies, an inspirational book, phone cards, maps, flashlights
and alarm clocks and includes a list of resource agencies and programs and a small stuffed animal.
Sleeping bags are also available on an "as needed" basis for those teens who will "couch surf" or
are in danger of homelessness. Our goal is to provide two dozen bags to selected teens around graduation
time in May/June 2008.
The Bear Hugs Committee is always seeking assistance with the project. Bear Hugs is in need of
financial, material and volunteer support. Cash donations are funded through the Junior League of
Greater Winter Haven, product donations for any of the duffel supplies are greatly appreciated.
"Bear" Necessities
* Stuffed "Bear" or other small stuffed animal
* Towel and washcloth
* Basic hygiene supplies: hairbrush, comb, soap, disposable razor, shave cream,
toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, mouthwash (full size containers)
* Small sewing kit
* Stationary supplies: paper, pencils, pens, stamps, tape, scissors, large
plastic multi-pocket file envelope, address book/calendar
* Small flashlight
* Small alarm clock
* Travel umbrella
* Travel First Aid kit
* Gift Certificates for food
* Telephone calling card
* Personal journal
* Inspirational book
* T-shirt
* Duffel bags
For more information about the project or donations, please contact the Junior League of Greater
Winter Haven at (863) 295-5655 or info@jlgwh.com.
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