Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation, the Chicago-based non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating pediatric cancer and providing hope and support to those who are touched by it, is thrilled to announce Bear Hugs are back, which kicked off in a Chicago Bears “Champion of the Game” spotlight with 12-year-old Mason Bertone, McHenry, IL resident. Individualized Bear Hug experiences, put on hold since March 2020 due to COVID-19 social distancing, are looking forward to a bright holiday season with such hugs as American Girl Place shopping and cafe dining; Field Museum family membership and farm outing at Double J Riding Club; and a weekend at The Langham Chicago with Christmas tree lighting and a visit to the Shedd Aquarium.

“We are excited to be able to bring back in-person Bear Hugs to provide much needed hope to our Bear Necessities community,” says Kathleen A. Casey, President and Founder of Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation. “Also, we welcome a new leader to support the growth of our mission, Kate Tillotson our new CEO.” Bear Necessities has supported thousands of children and families through the unique Bear Hugs program over the years, providing customized experiences from events such as tickets to a concert or Joffrey Ballet to family-friendly moments like brand-new backyard swing sets and fishing trips to Wisconsin. More than 384 Bear Hugs were provided in 2019 alone. For more information on how to support Bear Necessities and Bear Hugs programs for families in need, visit https://www.bearnecessities.org/donate/. For more information, contact office@bearnecessities.org.