Bent Law Legal Services is organizing two community initiatives this month to support sick children and local first responders.
Law firm owner Stephanie Bent and her team are working to fill gaps in the community she says have been left by the COVID-19 pandemic. One of those gaps was created when hospitals were no longer able to accept used stuffed animals for sick children.
"When a little one used to go to the hospital and was unwell, a little fluffy friend can sometimes make the scary world not seem so scary," she said. "When we found out they were no longer allowed to accept used bears due to COVID, we set out on a mission to find a way that was safe."
Last year, Bent Law collected 998 new bears. With the help of FullForce Legal Service LLP in Barrie, the firm is hoping to surpass that number this year.
"Last year, our bears found their way to the hearts of SickKids Hospital, Soldiers' Memorial pediatrics and two private anonymous organizations helping children who are victims of violent crimes and abuse," Bent explained. "This year, we hope to reach more facilities and bring a fluffy friend to a little one who might need a friend."
She hopes the second year of the teddy bear drive will provide hope to families in a dark time. To arrange pick up for new and unused stuffies, donors are asked to email [email protected]. Monetary donations are also being accepted.
Bent says she and her staff are grateful to those who have contributed to the drive, which runs until Oct. 31.
Bent Law is also hosting its Plaid for Courage banquet-style event this fall. On Nov. 23, from 6 to 11 p.m. at the Moose Lodge in Orillia, there will be a live DJ, food, a silent auction, and a 50/50 draw to help raise money for first responders who are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
"PTSD affects us all, but first responders bear the brunt," Bent said, noting 15 to 30 per cent of first responders suffer from PTSD compared to 6.8 per cent of the general population.
Bent's father was a police officer, many of her friends are police officers, and her husband is a corrections officer who suffers from PTSD.
"I've lost a lot of friends who unfortunately felt that life was a little too much," she said. "It's not an easy road."
Tickets to Plaid for Courage cost $45 in advance and can be purchased by emailing [email protected]. Proceeds will be donated to Boots on the Ground Peer Support and Badge of Life Canada.
"It's an event where you can have a bite to eat, listen to some good music, and help raise some money to go back into the community," Bent said. "It's a good thing and a safe space to come unwind and have some fun."
Those who can't attend but would like to donate can do so here.
