The provincial government has announced the return of its annual Share-a-Bear campaign, which launches this week in BC Liquor Stores throughout the province.
From now until Christmas, BC Liquor Stores customers can purchase a set of twin pandas for $12.50, and one of the twins will be shared with a local community charity.
Each year, BC Liquor Store employees select charities in their communities that help families in need—from children’s hospitals to shelters —then distribute the donated teddy bears in time for the holidays.
Customers can also participate in a free draw for a giant panda bear that is approximately 56 cm tall. Each BC Liquor Store will have two giant panda bears up for grabs.
“The Share-a-Bear campaign is a central part of the annual holiday season in BC Liquor Stores,” says Lise Phang, visual presentation manager of the BC Liquor Distribution Branch in the announcement. “An annual tradition, this campaign ushers the stores and its customers into the spirit of the holidays—sharing joy and happiness with those less fortunate.”
Last year more than 23,000 bears were donated as part of the initiative. Over 600,000 bears have been donated to charities, shelters and hospitals since the program began in 1989.