Operation Bear Hug is an outreach ministry of Bishop Anderson House that provides age appropriate bears to mainly pediatric patients, but sometimes adult patients at the John H. Stroger Jr Hospital of Cook County and Rush University Medical Center.

• Teddy Bears are used to ease the anxiety level of hospitalized children and to break the ice. The simple act of giving the gift of bears makes conversation easier.
  
• The bears are indications of another’s concern for them and their recovery.
  
• The bears are outward symbols of God’s love and care.