Our goal is to wrap children and their families in love and support so they can focus on getting better. Our flagship program provides dream experiences called Bear Hugs to brighten the lives of children with cancer.
We work closely with each family to design a customized Bear Hug that meets their child’s unique needs and interests. A child may choose to attend a Bears game and walk on Soldier Field, meet Lady Gaga, see a Broadway show, take a ride on their very own new bicycle — the possibilities are endless!
Whatever a child’s dream, our team works with our close network of friends, donors, and volunteers to make it come true. Every Bear Hug is different because every child is different, and we get to know our families personally to provide something truly special.
Bear Hugs provide unforgettable moments for the entire family. One mom recently shared, “We are so incredibly grateful for the support Bear Necessities has shown us. Jaden’s Bear Hug brought him so much joy during one of the most difficult times of his life…Thank you for all that you have done and continue to do for families like ours!”
The importance of our work is backed by science: feelings of hope and optimism lead to better psychosocial outcomes for children with cancer1. Positive emotions in children can promote resilience, improving an individual’s overall well-being. Bear Hugs inspire hope and joy so children build the strength to cope with their illness. At Bear Necessities, we understand what battling pediatric cancer feels like, and we know the power of joy to combat it.
Any child, ages 0-19, currently in treatment for pediatric cancer and living in the state of Illinois, or being treated at a hospital in Illinois, qualifies for our services. We also work with Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida. We support families for up to five relapses — because we fight harder than pediatric cancer!
If your child or someone you know would like a Bear Hug, please contact your hospital social worker to receive our referral paperwork.
Questions? Email [email protected] or call 312-214-1200 x25.
We give special support to patients receiving MIBG treatment. Patients receiving this high dose of radiation are placed in a special room with limited outside contact. All items that enter the room cannot be removed later or kept by the child. We provide room decorations, soft blankets, toys, and other items to help every child feel as comfortable, hopeful, and happy as possible while receiving this treatment.
Your support makes Bear Hugs possible. If you would like to fund a Bear Hug, please donate today. If you would like to donate gift cards, discounted hotel stays, electronics, or other frequently requested items, please contact [email protected] or 312-214-1200 x25.
1 https://www.uptodate.com/contents/children-and-youth-with-special-health-care-needs 2 Psychology in the Schools, 2008
“Riley was diagnosed with lymphoma in September, and by October, treatment caused hair loss, weight loss, and weakness so he couldn’t walk. He lost interest in his toys. He only wanted to lay down and watch TV. We stayed at Ronald McDonald house, and their family dining area had a Pac-Man machine. It was the first thing Riley showed interest in. It made him smile and laugh. Within a month, you delivered the exact same machine to us, and it has brought so many hours of fun and enjoyment. He only likes to play it together with the two of us, so it’s a fun escape for us both. We can’t thank you enough for giving my son joy when he had none.” –Kim, Riley’s mom
“Bobby was totally blown away when he received his Bear Hug gift. Not only did it pick him up and make him feel so special, his new Apple Watch has been an incredible tool to utilize in his recovery from treatment. Not a day goes by that he doesn’t wear this Apple Watch you bought him! His heart rate was extremely high after his chemotherapy, and the watch made him feel safe being able to monitor it all times.” –Jen, Bobby’s mom
“Where do I begin with the American Girl doll shopping spree! Elena had a blast. It was such an amazing experience with our very own personal shopper. Thank you again for this. It was something she will always remember. Something I will always remember.” – Ruby, Elena’s mom
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