A poor, neglected teddy bear is sitting in a corner of the room with nobody to keep it warm at night. Why not donate it to DECA’s teddy bear drive where the bear is sure to get a loving home.

Boxes are set up in most R1 classes where students can drop off a new or fairly used bear. The class with the highest number of bears donated will win a free breakfast.

Every bear or stuffed animal students donate will be sent to a non-profit organization called CHILDHELP, which helps abused, neglected and at-risk children. DECA has been teaming up with CHILDHELP since last year to spread awareness of child abuse.

“Often child abuse is one issue that is not heavily publicized. All people seem to hear is news of war so we are trying to get the word out,” said junior Hebah Elhak, who is also the project director.

180 bears have been received so far, but the DECA department is hoping for more. “If you could give anything this holiday season donate a stuffed animal to help a child in need,” says Elhak.

Make sure to donate your stuffed animal by December 15th and help a child in need.