June Bones, volunteer presents a bear to Lois Binder, resident in the Muncy Valley Hospital Skilled Nursing Unit.

Volunteers at Muncy Valley Hospital donate their time making Teddy Bears for residents in the Skilled Nursing Unit, children in Same Day Surgery and inpatients.

Since the program began in 1988, over 1,400 bears have been made and given out by the three auxiliaries at Muncy Valley Hospital. The auxiliaries combined in November 2004 to become the Muncy Valley Hospital Auxiliary and the tradition continues of making these unique handmade bears for residents and patients.

The Teddy Bears are made from scratch; one member purchases the plush material, stuffing, felt and threads. Another member makes the hearts and others cut the material, sew them together, stuff the bears and apply finishing touches.

Each 15-inch Teddy Bear wears a ribbon and a handmade heart that states, “Hug Me-I Love You” from the Muncy Valley Hospital Auxiliary.” Bears are available to purchase for $12 each by calling the Volunteer Office, Muncy Valley Hospital, at 546-4128. The proceeds are then used to purchase more material.