BTA Brings First Teddy Bear Toss to Batavia

On Wednesday, December 17, the Batavia Teachers’ Association was proud to help turn a local hockey game into a meaningful community event. During a Batavia Notre Dame JV Hockey game, we hosted Batavia’s first-ever Teddy Bear Toss—an evening focused on generosity, connection, and supporting local children.

Community members attending the game were encouraged to bring a new stuffed animal. At the end of the first period, fans filled the ice with teddy bears as donations were tossed from the stands. By the end of the night, approximately 300 stuffed animals had been collected.

All donated bears will be distributed to local children through organizations serving Batavia families, including the Salvation Army, children’s hospitals, shelters, and other community-based groups. In addition to the stuffed animals, the event also raised more than $100 in cash donations, all of which will be donated directly to the Salvation Army.

To make sure everyone had the opportunity to participate, the Batavia Teachers’ Association purchased 100 teddy bears in advance and coordinated on-site bear sales throughout the evening. This allowed families and fans who arrived without a donation to still take part in the event and contribute to the cause.

The Teddy Bear Toss is one more example of how Batavia educators work together to support the community we serve. While our work begins in classrooms across the district, it extends far beyond school walls. Events like this allow us to connect with families, partner with local organizations, and create moments that make a real difference for children in need.

We are grateful to the Batavia Notre Dame JV Hockey team and to every community member who participated, donated, or helped spread the word. The success of this first Teddy Bear Toss shows what can happen when our community comes together with kindness at the center.