Every purchase supports children in crisis

The Kentucky State Police are inviting Kentuckians to share the love this Valentine’s Day with a gift that offers comfort and support beyond the holiday: the Trooper Teddy Bear.

Between Jan. 30 and Feb. 16, the agency is offering the bears at a special discounted price of $20 each. Those who order online by Feb. 7 and select shipping will also receive a complimentary sheet of Trooper Teddy Valentine’s cards, a fitting addition to a heartfelt gift.

“On Valentine’s Day and every day, what better way for Team Kentucky to support children in crisis than by purchasing a Trooper Teddy?” Gov. Andy Beshear said. “These bears serve as a lifeline, providing a comforting companion on the hardest days.”

The program, which has been a staple of the Kentucky State Police’s community outreach for decades, provides troopers with a tool to help children facing distressing circumstances—whether they have been in a car accident, are victims of abuse or are coping with serious illness.

“Trooper Teddy Bears have become an essential part of our mission to support children and build trust with them,” said KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr. “This Valentine’s Day, we encourage everyone to join us in creating smiles and spreading kindness.”

The bears are available for purchase online (trooper-project.square.site/trooper-teddy) or at any Kentucky State Police post. Online orders can be shipped for an additional fee or picked up free of charge at a local post.

The Trooper Teddy Project is entirely sustained by donations and sales, with 100% of proceeds going to purchase additional bears for children in need. Those interested in buying a bear or making a tax-deductible contribution can visit the Trooper Teddy website.

The program was established in December 1989 after then-First Lady Martha Wilkinson organized a fundraiser at Red Mile Gaming & Racing, raising enough money to purchase 2,000 bears. The initial batch included a personal note from Mrs. Wilkinson.