Volunteers at Community Nurses' Hospice Program Make Memory Bears

When it’s no longer possible to hug Grandpa, a stuffed bear made from his favorite shirt might be the next best thing. That’s the idea behind the “Memory Bear” program at Community Nurses.

When one of the Community Nurses’ hospice patients passes, a cherished piece of clothing is often brought to the Community Nurses office. Volunteers then transform the fabric into stuffed teddy bears. They make one bear free of charge, and if the family wishes to have additional bears, they are $35 each to cover the cost.

“We are so appreciative of the time our volunteers give to this program,” said Amber Franco, CNI Hospice Supervisor. “The Memory Bear gives the family a physical memory of the person and aids in the grieving process.”