A simple act of kindness is making a big difference for children during emergencies across the Vermilion area.

Earlier this week, Vermilion Fire Chief Anton Krys accepted a donation of more than 150 teddy bears from McFrugal’s in the Town of Vermilion on behalf of local emergency service agencies. The bears, often referred to as “trauma bears,” are used on emergency scenes to comfort and calm children during and after stressful situations.

 

Comfort When It’s Needed Most

Trauma bears are a small but powerful tool for first responders. They help distract young children during medical calls, fire responses, and other emergencies, offering reassurance during moments of fear and uncertainty.

Following the donation, the bears were distributed to emergency services throughout the Town of Vermilion and the County of Vermilion River.

 

 

Agencies Receiving Trauma Bears

The donation was shared with the following departments and programs:

• Vermilion Fire & Rescue Society
• Dewberry Fire & Rescue
• Paradise Valley Fire Department
• Kitscoty Fire Department
• Blackfoot Fire and Rescue
• Marwayne Fire and Rescue
• Clandonald Fire and Rescue
• Islay Fire and Rescue
• Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Alberta
• Vermilion RCMP Victim Services
• Alberta Sheriffs
• Medavie Health Services West (Ambulance)
• County of Vermilion River Protective Services and Peace Officer Program

Community Support in Action

Chief Anton Krys accepted the donation on behalf of all participating agencies and expressed appreciation for the community-minded gesture.

Emergency services extended their thanks to McFrugal’s and its staff for thinking of families and children during difficult moments and for supporting those who respond when help is needed most.

The donation highlights how local businesses continue to play a meaningful role in community safety and care — one teddy bear at a time.