Hershey Bears Distribute Bears and More to Milton Hershey School Students
On Feb. 7, 2025, several Hershey Bears players visited Memorial Hall and brought smiles to students’ faces as they distributed stuffed animals to Elementary Division kids.
Their visit was in response to the Teddy Bear Toss, an annual event where fans toss stuffed animals onto the ice, which are donated to local nonprofits. This year, the hockey team raised the bar, collecting 102,343 teddy bears and stuffed animals, breaking the previous record of 74,599 set in 2024.
The Hershey Bears Teddy Bear Toss began in 2001 and has continued as a world-famous tradition beloved by fans, players, and children. For the last several years, Milton Hershey School students in our Elementary Division have received stuffed animals from this event.
“This is the best day of my life,” said third grader Calvin Sullivan.
Students had the opportunity to ask the athletes questions about their careers and learn what it takes to become a professional ice hockey player. They were reminded about the importance of commitment to mission, as the journey to becoming a professional ice hockey player often spans around 15 years.
“The kids get so excited when they see one of us walk through their classroom doors,” defenseman Chase Priskie, said. “Having the chance to answer their questions about the team and the sport, and giving back in this way, is really special.”
MHS partners with the Hershey Bears throughout the year, creating opportunities for students to engage with the team in various ways. Through this partnership, students can look up to the athletes as positive role models and inspiring figures in their community.
“The Hershey Bears are really student-focused and you can tell they enjoy spending time with our kids,” MHS Elementary School Assistant Principal Travis Smith said. “Hearing them share stories about how they’ve raised the bar in their lives makes events like these awesome.”
The Hershey Bears donated about 500 stuffed animals to MHS.
Learn More About our Hershey Entity Partners