Full Breakdown
Hershey Bears Set New Record with Teddy Bear Toss
1/11/2026, 8:09:48 PM
Record-Breaking Event
On January 5, 2025, the Hershey Bears, an American Hockey League (AHL) team, achieved a remarkable milestone by collecting 102,343 teddy bears and stuffed animals during their annual GIANT Teddy Bear Toss. This event, held at the GIANT Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania, surpassed the previous record of 74,599 set in 2024. The tradition involves fans throwing stuffed animals onto the ice following the Bears' first goal of the game, which was scored by forward Mike Sgarbossa at 14:45 of the first period against the Providence Bruins. The Bears won the game 5-1 in front of a sold-out crowd of 10,514.
Philanthropic Impact
The stuffed animals collected during the Teddy Bear Toss will be donated to over 35 local charities as part of the Hershey Bears Cares initiative. Beneficiaries include organizations such as Schreiber Pediatric, Vista Autism Services, the Central PA Food Bank, and the Milton and Catherine Hershey Schools. Additionally, the Sweigart Family Foundation has pledged to donate to the Children's Miracle Network, matching the number of stuffed animals thrown on the ice. Since its inception in 2001, the Teddy Bear Toss has contributed nearly 650,000 stuffed animals to children in need across central Pennsylvania.
Community Engagement
In a heartwarming display of community spirit, students from pre-K to fourth grade at the Milton Hershey School received stuffed animals collected from the event. Approximately 500 stuffed animals were distributed to the school, with the remainder going to other educational institutions and children's hospitals. Amanda Smith, principal of Memorial Hall Elementary School, emphasized the importance of the event in teaching students about the value of giving back to the community.
Local Contributions
Gabby Kerchner, a high school junior from Mechanicsburg, has played a significant role in supporting the Teddy Bear Toss through her nonprofit, Gabby’s Acts of Kindness. Since its establishment, her organization has helped collect over 125,000 stuffed animals. Gabby expressed her passion for the event, stating, “I think about it every day when I wake up. It’s just so incredible.” Her efforts have contributed to the joy and comfort provided to children receiving the plush toys.
Official Statements & Responses
The Hershey Bears organization highlighted the success of the event, noting the overwhelming support from fans and the community. The team’s commitment to philanthropy through the Teddy Bear Toss continues to resonate within the local area, fostering a spirit of kindness and generosity.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Sweet cuddly mayhem! It’s a sky full of stuffies! It’s the Teddy Bear Toss magic in Hershey.” — Bears Announcer
- “You never know what a person’s going through… Do something good and you’ll get it right back.” — Gabby Kerchner, Founder of Gabby’s Acts of Kindness
The Hershey Bears' Teddy Bear Toss not only sets records but also exemplifies the power of community engagement and charitable giving, making a significant impact on the lives of many children in need.
