Everglow community centre members gift Townsville paramedics trauma teddies

A group of talented crafters in Townsville has come together to make dozens of trauma teddies, designed to provide comfort to those experiencing distress or pain while travelling in an ambulance.

Everglow Community Care gifted 55 trauma teddy's to QLD Ambulance Officers.

A group of nifty crafters have made dozens of teddy bears to help assist those experiencing distress or pain when travelling in an ambulance in Townsville.

The trauma teddies are made from wool in all different colours and come in different sizes.

They were created by elderly ladies at Everglow Community Care in Currajong and were handed over to Queensland Ambulance officers on Tuesday morning.

Providing community based services to older people from diverse cultural backgrounds since 1988, Everglow Community Care aims to improve physical, mental, social and emotional wellbeing for the elderly in Townsville.

The idea to make trauma teddies was sparked by group member Wilma and resulted in 55 bears that were donated.

Evergrow Community Care gifted 55 trauma teddy's to QLD Ambulance Officers.

“I made a suggestion one day about making trauma teddies, and it grew from there,” she said.

“We all get together and do different arts and crafts together.”

Activities co-ordinator Tracy Wood said the teddies would assist, especially with younger children.

“It calms them down and gives them something to hold onto,” she said.

“It’s something they can play with to keep their minds off things.”

Ms Woods said the bears would be distributed to paramedics and ambulance centres across Townsville.

Everglow staff said their services include arts and crafts, yoga, music, puzzle and colouring-in groups, boosting the social connections for those who may live alone.

Ms Woods said the craft group had many benefits for its elderly members, saying the trauma teddy project was a great social activity.

“It keeps them active, helps their motor skills and their socialisation as well,” she said,

“Some of the ladies that come don’t have anybody at home anymore, so this is a big part of getting out and socialising. They make new friends and meet new people.”

Originally published as Everglow community centre members gift Townsville paramedics trauma teddies