The Adopt-A-Bear Program was established to assist the Connecticut State Police in dealing with children in traumatic circumstances such as accidents, medical emergencies and domestic violence. In 2003 the program was expanded to also include donations to the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. Since its inception in 1992, the Adopt-A-Bear program has expanded to include local police and fire departments, hospitals, and other social services agencies designated by participating credit unions. In 2006, $14,514 was collected to donate 2,902 bears to various agencies. Overall, credit unions and their members have donated 36,186 bears by raising $180,930.

Each year the campaign runs from mid-December through February. If your credit union would like to participate or if you would like to donate $5.00 to purchase a bear to be donated, please call Mary Ann Pollaro at 800.228.2285, ext. 119.