Teddies to comfort kids in crisis

AN anonymous resident recently left two bags of colourful knitted Trauma Teddies at Heathcote Community House which will be given to children needing comfort in emergency situations.

Staff and volunteers at HCH were amazed by how much time and effort had gone into creating the teddies.

“Nobody knows who delivered these beautifully knitted teddies,” said HCH executive officer Vicki Forde.

“A lot of work and kindness has gone into making them and I am sure they will make a big difference to children going through tough times.

“Whoever the undercover angel is, we want them to know how much their efforts are appreciated.

“It is humbling when someone goes to so much effort and doesn’t ask for recognition.”

The teddies were taken to their new home at Heathcote Police Station last week.

“It is very good of someone or some people, to devote so much time and effort to knit these teddy bears for kids,” said Leading Senior Constable Paul Chase.

“They will all be put to good use.”

In 1990, New South Wales Ambulance Superintendent Richard Hamilton observed the calming effect a teddy had on a child in an ambulance.

The idea of a Trauma Teddy was born, and the call went out to Red Cross volunteers.

The first official Red Cross Trauma Teddy was given to a child in 1991, and many more have brought comfort to children and adults experiencing illness, trauma or distress.

Other groups and individuals have knitted teddies for ambulance, police and other emergency services across Australia.

The Red Cross sent 500 Trauma Teddies to New York after the September 11 attacks in 2001 and to Bali after bombings in Kuta.

“At HCH we really appreciate these acts of kindness,” said Ms Forde.

“Thank you for allowing us to play a small part by delivering them to our local police.”