PEI

Teddy Bear Toss brings comfort to injured, sick children

The third annual Teddy Bear Toss, where Summerside Western Capital fans are encouraged to throw teddy bears on the ice, was held Sunday at the Credit Union Place in Summerside.

Third annual toy collection by Summerside Western Capitals

Summerside Western Capital Players gather up donations from the Teddy Bear Toss. (Summerside Western Capitals)

The third annual Teddy Bear Toss, where Summerside Western Capital fans are encouraged to throw teddy bears on the ice, was held Sunday at the Credit Union Place in Summerside.

The donations are collected during a break in the action. The toys are given to P.E.I. emergency responders, including Island EMS and the RCMP, and then distributed to sick or injured children.

“People really support it well,” said Pat McIver, general manager of the Summerside Western Capitals.

“We get a lot of teddy bears every year and it goes to a great cause, and this time of year it's nice to be able to give back.”

The Teddy Bear Toss is held in memory of Islander Chad Gallant, who was killed by an impaired driver in 2006.