Fans tossed more than 20,000 teddy bears onto the ice during the Coachella Valley Firebirds’ fourth annual Teddy Bear Toss Night at Acrisure Arena, the hockey team announced Monday.
The toss occurred after Firebirds’ forward Oscar Molgaard scored the first goal 2:30 into the first period during the team’s game Friday against the Bakersfield Condors.
“This night is such a powerful reminder of what this community is capable of when we come together,” Executive Director of One Valley Foundation Kate Spates said in a statement. “Each teddy bear represents comfort, joy, and care for a child who needs it most. The generosity of Firebirds fans continues to inspire us, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s Teddy Bear Toss such a meaningful success.”
The 22,029 stuffed animals collected will be distributed through One Valley Foundation, the charitable arm of the Firebirds’ organization, and donated to local first responders, including fire and police departments in the Coachella Valley, 29 Palms Marine Corps Toys for Tots and Coachella Valley Rescue Mission.
Fans have helped donate more than 72,000 teddy bears and other stuffed animals for more than four seasons for children in need, officials said.