The Lancaster Stormers will host their annual Teddy Bear Toss during Youth Hockey Night on August 16, 2023. This event will benefit pediatric patients at Penn Medicine Lancaster General Hospital, specifically targeting those in the emergency department. Fans attending the game against the Staten Island Ferry Hawks, scheduled for 6:45 p.m., are encouraged to bring new, non-electronic stuffed animals to Penn Medicine Park.
In a time-honored tradition, attendees will throw the collected toys onto the field after the Stormers’ first home run. If no home run occurs, the toss will take place at the end of the game. The donated stuffed animals will then be delivered to the hospital, providing comfort to young patients and their families during challenging moments.
Support from Local Community
This initiative is part of a year-round effort led by Marcy Mercer, a social worker in the emergency department at Lancaster General Hospital. Mercer coordinates donation drives and creates Amazon wish lists to ensure that every pediatric patient receives a source of comfort. She noted, “The impact has been huge for the pediatric patients we see, their parents, and the staff. The staff truly enjoys giving out stuffed animals and uses them to help make the emergency department experience a little bit easier. I’ve also had many parents share that well after the ‘emergency,’ the stuffed animal quickly becomes their favorite for years.”
The Teddy Bear Toss is a key highlight of the evening, which also features a range of family-friendly activities. Fans can expect a special visit from the Phillie Phanatic, youth hockey activities, and a hat giveaway for the first 1,000 fans aged 16 and older, sponsored by Orthopedic Associates of Lancaster. To cap off the event, spectators will be treated to fireworks presented by Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health.
A Legacy of Community Engagement
Now in their 21st season, the Lancaster Stormers play in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball, recognized as a pathway to Major League Baseball. Over the past 25 years, the league has successfully sent more than 1,400 players to MLB organizations. The Stormers’ home, Penn Medicine Park, has also been awarded the title of Best Ballpark multiple times.
The Teddy Bear Toss exemplifies the Stormers’ commitment to community engagement and highlights the positive impact sports can have beyond the field. As the event approaches, anticipation builds among fans eager to support a worthy cause while enjoying an evening of baseball.
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