MCHD Police to Launch Teddy Bear Program

On July 1, the Midland County Hospital District Police Department (MCHD PD) will unveil their new teddy program.

The program was created by Chief Kenny Taylor and Officer Johnny Valderaz when they saw a need for children who visit Midland Memorial Hospital as a patient or as a child who has witnessed a traumatic event. The bears are meant to comfort the children during their time of distress. The teddy bears will also be carried in the hospital police vehicles of the officers for situations that may arise outside of the hospital during their patrols.

Funds for the teddy bears were provided by the Midland Memorial Hospital Auxiliary. The Auxiliary donated approximately $4,500 to purchase the initial 500 bears in colors of white, brown and pink. Each bear has a distinct ear tag, police vest with the MCHD PD patch on the back, as well as a small replica badge on the chest.

MCHD PD will also be selling the bears to the public. The bears will be on sale at the Police Department located on the first floor of MMH just inside the Illinois St. entrance. For more information, please call MCHD PD at (432) 221-1986. Funds collected will be used to replenish the Teddy Bear program to purchase bears as needed in the future.