Jen Wilkinson, FEO, January 9, 2025, VOL. 6 ISSUE 9
Ursula Bennett first encountered the idea of Burden Bears during a trip to Florida. Inspired, she brought the concept back to her community in Black Creek, where it took root. Burden Bears are small, handmade stuffed bears created to comfort those in need. Their uniqueness lies in their lack of eyes and mouths, an intentional design explained by the tag that accompanies each bear:
No eyes to judge you
No mouth to tell your secrets
Just ears to hear you and arms to hug you.
In 2004, Ursula and a dedicated group of women began crafting these bears with love and attention to detail. Despite setbacks caused by the pandemic, the group has been thriving and has made approximately 1,000 bears since March 2024.
“We give them away; we don’t charge for them,” Ursula shared. “We give them to anyone who needs one.”
While the initial assembly happens at home, the women meet weekly at the Black Creek Community Hall to stuff and finish the bears together. Their work, surrounded by soft white batting and shared laughter, ensures each bear is completed with care. Every bear includes a matching blanket fastened with Velcro and the signature tag bearing its message of comfort.
These meaningful creations have reached nursing homes, Niagara Hospice, Ronald McDonald House, and, through partnerships like the Shriners, even Erie, PA. Though the primary focus is local distribution, some bears have found homes internationally. Some veterinary hospitals also use them to console families grieving the loss of a beloved pet.
At the opening of the new Gilmore Lodge, every resident received a personalized bear with their name, an effort coordinated with the Friends of Gilmore. The team has already delivered 91 bears and is working on 70 more for incoming residents.
To sustain the project, the women rely on monetary and material donations, thrift shop finds, and proceeds from craft shows. They are always in need of Velcro, fabric, stuffing, quilt batting, ribbons, and financial contributions. Volunteer drivers are also welcomed, especially for deliveries to Hamilton.
Spending time with this group of women reveals a remarkable sense of camaraderie, joy, and mutual support. Their efforts result in more than just handmade bears—they create tangible expressions of love, friendship and comfort for those who need it most.