Kentucky State Police Trooper Teddy sale returns in February

FRANKFORT, Ky. – This Valentine’s Day, Kentuckians can give back with the purchase of a Trooper Teddy Bear.

The Kentucky State Police says its Trooper Teddy Valentine’s Day sale runs Feb. 2-16, offering the teddy bears for a special price of $20.

With each purchase, troopers say funds help support the Trooper Teddy Project, a program that places teddy bears in the hands of children experiencing traumatic events, including severe illness, car accidents, abuse or involvement in critical incidents.

The agency says the initiative operates through charitable donations and bear sales, with all proceeds directly supporting the purchase of additional bears.

“The children receiving support from this cause have experienced trauma that no one should have to go through, especially kids” Gov. Andy Beshear said. “The Trooper Teddy Project helps us wrap our arms around our most vulnerable population and can bring peace during some of the most difficult times.”

The program began in December 1989 following a fundraiser hosted by then-first lady Martha Wilkinson, which raised enough money to buy the program’s first 2,000 bears, according to KSP.

Since then, Trooper Teddy Bears have become a meaningful part of KSP’s efforts to support children across Kentucky.

“Trooper Teddy Bears allow our troopers to connect with children during some of the most challenging moments they may face,” KSP commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr. said. “This program is about compassion, trust and reminding children that they are not alone.”

The first 50 customers who order online as part of the sale will receive a free Trooper Teddy sticker and KSP pencil, KSP says.

Trooper Teddy Bears can be bought online or in person at any KSP Post. Online orders can be shipped for an additional fee or picked up at a local KSP Post at no cost, the agency says.