Students and staff from Amity High School are one of many groups that has participated in the Holiday Bear Project — a gift program for needy students. Students purchased and wrapped their donated gifts, then delivered them to CEA.
You have the opportunity to make a child’s holiday brighter this year by participating in the Holiday Bear Project, sponsored by CEA’s charitable organization, the Connecticut Education Foundation (CEF).
The program matches needy public school students with sponsors who purchase gifts for the children who would otherwise receive none. The Holiday Bear Project has grown over the years, benefiting over 10,000 Connecticut public school students since it began in 1998.
The program still needs sponsors for this holiday season. You can help by:
- Sponsoring a child by purchasing gifts.
- Donating money toward gifts or purchasing gift certificates.
Anyone can sponsor a child or donate money, and sponsorships and donations are accepted throughout the project. Click here for more about the Holiday Bear Project.
Checks should be made payable to:
CEF – Holiday Bear Project
21 Oak Street
Suite 500
Hartford, CT 06106
Helping More Kids
CEA Vice President Jeff Leake, who serves as CEF president, says “Every year the Holiday Bear Project brings joy to many needy children who otherwise wouldn’t receive any gifts for the holidays.”
Student organizations at public schools across the state frequently get involved by sponsoring children and buying gifts. “It’s heartwarming to see kids helping kids — doing something special for a less-fortunate child,” said Leake. “The project teaches students about philanthropy and helps prepare them to be giving adults.”
For more information, please contact Mary Pat Soucy or Jeff Leake.
