Bears that Care Celebrates Five Years in Exeter

EXETER – For the fifth year, Whirlygigs, a locally-owned toy store in downtown Exeter, is kicking off “Bears that Care” for the month of December.

For every teddy bear purchased at the store, Whirlygigs will donate two teddy bears to be given to children who are patients in Exeter Hospital’s Emergency Department (ED).

“This is such a wonderful tradition,” said Roger Bailey, director of emergency services. “The ED nurses love being able to give a teddy bear to a child who is hurting and scared. And we hear stories all the time about adults who still have a stuffed animal or toy they were given as a child during their own hospital experience. It makes a big difference and adds something positive to their memory.”

“We are thrilled to offer Bears that Care for a fifth year,” said Geoffrey Pendexter, owner of Whirylgigs. “It’s a way for our store to give back to children in our community, and customers feel good knowing their own teddy bear purchase will make a difference.”

Whirlygigs, a locally owned toy store since 1986, was voted the “Best Local Toy Store” by New Hampshire Magazine readers in 2011, 2012, 2016, 2017 and 2018 and has been named the Best Toy Store in New England by Yankee Magazine. Whirlygigs is located at 107 Water Street in Exeter. Find them online at whirygigstoyshop.com

Exeter Hospital is a 100-bed, community-based hospital that serves residents from 38 towns in New Hampshire’s Seacoast Region. The Emergency Department has approximately 28,000 annual visits. For more information, visit exeterhospital.com.