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Operation CARE Bears
~ NOT JUST TOYS AND GIFTS ~
It’s no secret that economically, times are hard for thousands of families in Southern Illinois. But times are also challenging for philanthropic organizations that provide for such families, organizations like Operation CARE Bears, a not-for-profit children’s charity based out of Illinois State Police District 22 in Ullin. CARE Bears’ gifts, donations and general fund-raising success have seen a steady decline in recent years, with 85 children from 32 families slated to receive CARE Bears Christmas Cheer in 2010. Giving is gradually diminishing; unfortunately need continues to rise.
Each Christmas season, CARE Bears distributes toys, clothing and food to needy children and their families in the lower seven counties of Illinois (Alexander, Hardin, Johnson, Massac, Pope, Pulaski and Union). Potential recipients are referred to CARE Bears by local school personnel, and their circumstances carefully considered by the CARE Bears committee. Particular emphasis is placed on those who may have “slipped through the cracks”; such as recent hardship cases and those that may not already be receiving assistance from other agencies. Unfortunately, many more children are nominated than for whom funding can provide, and the process of selection/elimination is extremely difficult for those involved.
So who receives help from CARE Bears? This year’s referrals include children with such challenges as dwarfism, hearing loss, heart defects, developmental and learning disabilities, physical deformity, speech delay and head trauma. If that weren’t tragic enough, many are also lacking basic necessities such as warm, properly fitting clothes and shoes. Some live in dilapidated homes. Some come from an abusive past, and many deal every day with unknown trials and tribulations, both physical and emotional. One family recently lost everything in a house fire. Three children have eyeglasses that are broken and glued or otherwise temporarily repaired. One 7 yr. old boy has been in and out of a homeless shelter. However, almost every school professional characterizes these children as sweet, pleasant, mannerly, polite and deeply appreciative of the kindness of others.
For most of these children, family dynamics are increasingly non-traditional. Many have been abandoned with no contact whatsoever with one or both parents. They are being raised by aunts, guardians and grandparents, many of whom are elderly with medical disabilities. There is also a noticeable rise in the number of single fathers this year, some with as many as 5 children. Many families have been forced to move in with other relatives in crowded circumstances just to get by, however some are new to the area and have no extended family nearby to turn to for help Substance abuse is often a factor, but many are simply loving families that have found themselves in a difficult situation that is beyond their control.
Thus CARE Bears is not just about toys and presents; it is about caring for and nurturing children in need. While things such as dolls and games are gratefully received by underprivileged children who have very little, many referring school personnel specifically request warm clothing, shoes and coats. Food vouchers are also provided. But just as important, CARE Bears has a goal of fostering positive feelings toward law enforcement and authority, and boosting the self-esteem and self-worth of these brave children by showing them that in spite of their circumstances, they are deserving and they are loved.
If you would like to help CARE Bears this holiday season, please click on the DONATE NOW button or send your tax-deductible donation to: Operation CARE Bears 1154 Shawnee College Rd. Ullin IL 62992. For more information or to volunteer, please click on the Contact Us link or call 618/845-3740 ext. 225.