The South Bend International Airport is hosting its 13th Bears in the Air kick-off party Dec. 6.
Bears in the Air is the airport’s annual program that was established as a way for the community to come together and make a positive difference. Its purpose is to provide support to children and vulnerable veterans in the community who could use a little extra help.
The kick-off party helps raise funds to purchase new teddy bears for children in area hospitals. Along with the bears, the funds raised provide financial assistance to the Robert L. Miller Sr. Veteran's Center.
Since the program’s inception 12 years ago, nearly 20,000 new teddy bears have been delivered to children in local hospitals. The event has raised more than $96,000 for the veteran’s center.
Funds are raised through donations and entry fees to the kick-off party that takes place each year on the first Friday following Black Friday.
This year’s event will take place 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 6 in the airport’s main terminal. The party is open to the public for adults 21+. There will be small bites, cocktails, music and door prizes. Learn more here.
South Bend International Airport’s five air carriers provide nonstop flights to sixteen destinations. The airport’s multi-modal terminal serves over one million air and rail passengers each year. Last week, the airport celebrated Breeze Airways' inaugural flight to Washington Dulles International Airport.
