CHICAGO (December 7, 2018) – The Loyola University Chicago women's basketball team will host its inaugural "Teddy Bear Toss" when it takes on UMKC on Sunday, December 16.
 
Benefiting the Lutheran Social Services of Illinois' (LSSI) Rogers Park Head Start Child Care Center, fans are encouraged to bring a new and unused teddy bear or stuffed animal (no bead eyes preferred) to toss on the floor during halftime of the 12 p.m. tip-off against the Kangaroos, which serves as the first game of a doubleheader, with the Rambler men to take on Norfolk State at 3 p.m.  The fan who tosses their teddy bear closest to center court will receive a Loyola prize pack.  Fans who bring a teddy bear or stuffed animal will receive $7 tickets to the doubleheader.
 
LSSI's early childhood programs have been in existence for more than 40 years, providing high quality, diverse and culturally sensitive services for children and families in several Chicago neighborhoods.  Their goal is to create a stimulating learning environment that promotes social competency and school readiness for preschool age children who are academically and economically at risk.
 
"What child doesn't love a teddy bear?," said LSSI Sr. Director of Communications and Advancement Barb Hailey.  "We can all think back to a favorite stuffed animal of our youth that was a constant source of comfort, so that of course is meaningful.  For families whose resources are limited, new toys might be a luxury, so these types of donations help provide support to our families and children.  And as a broader gesture, it shows children and families that they are part of a caring community."
 
More information LSSI's Head Start Children Centers can be found here.  Questions on the event can be directed to Loyola Assistant Director of Marketing and Ticket Operations Kayli Miller (773-508-2874; kmiller31@luc.edu).
 
Loyola, currently riding a four-game winning streak and off to its best eight-game start (6-2) since 2001-02, returns to action on Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m. (CT) when it takes on Purdue in West Lafayette, Ind.