Each year, more than 9,000 children are admitted to WVU Medicine Children’s Hospital, many facing serious health challenges in unfamiliar surroundings. The Bears & Blankets initiative was created to provide comfort to these young patients through the donation of new stuffed animals and blankets.
Beginning in June 2025, Bears & Blankets expanded into a national community service project for WVU Alumni Chapters. Alumni across the country participate by collecting and donating new bears and blankets, or by contributing financially through designated WVU Foundation giving pages. These donations will be given to children upon admission or as a reward for completing treatment, helping to brighten their hospital experience. The next drive will begin in June 2026.
Questions? Contact the WVU Alumni Association at alumni@mail.wvu.edu or (304) 293-4731.
2025 Bears and Blankets Drive by the numbers
Participating Chapters: 14
Financial Donations: $9,627 (1,375 item buying power)
Item Donations: 921
Total Donations: 2,296
2025 Goal: 1,000 Donations