Over 700 trauma bears will be handed out to RCMP across the mid-Island, thanks to the Central Vancouver Island Crime Stoppers. (Nanaimo RCMP)

By Jordan Davidson

Cpl. cuddles

‘A comfort factor:’ 700 trauma bears purchased for Nanaimo RCMP

Jan 30, 2024 | 10:57 AM

NANAIMO — RCMP officers across the mid-Island will have a cuddly new tool in their arsenal.

Over 700 ‘trauma bears’ have been purchased for the Nanaimo RCMP, and will be distributed among detachments across Vancouver Island.

Reserve Cst. Gary O’Brien said the majority of them will be used by Nanaimo front-line officers.

“They’re used quite effectively when they give them to little kids who have been traumatized or they’ve seen terrible things. They’re also quite effective when kids are having a hard time talking to police officers, and they can hold on to the bear for a comfort factor.”

The purchase of the bears was made possible thanks to Central Vancouver Island Crime Stoppers after they were approached by a civilian employee of the Nanaimo RCMP detachment.

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“Our goal is this will be a yearly project. Maybe local businesses in the various communities will pick up on this too and support the program and move it forward,” said O’Brien.

Ten other detachments who disseminates tips from Crimestoppers will receive bears, including Port Alberni, Oceanside, Ladysmith, and Gabriola Island.

“It’s amazing how something so small can have such a significant impact.”

To submit a tip to Crime Stoppers call 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip online to crimestoppers.com.

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jordan@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @JordanDHeyNow