The beloved Teddy Bear Picnic is back in Morden, and has been moved to the Access event centre due to today's (May 31st) smoky conditions. The fun will be happening inside the Huron Arena from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., bringing families, stuffies, and local healthcare professionals together for an afternoon of fun, learning, and support for local programming.
Hosted by the Morden Family Resource Centre, the event serves as the Centre’s largest annual fundraiser.
A fun way to make healthcare less intimidating
Healthcare can often feel intimidating for children, but the Teddy Bear Picnic helps to break down that barrier.
“I love to see our local health professionals come out of their clinics and into the community. They get to spend time with the kids and families they usually see in more clinical settings, and that really helps make those professionals feel more approachable to the kids.” - Jen Froese, Executive Director, Morden Family Resource Centre.
This year’s event will feature a range of professionals, including optometrists from Focal Point, physiotherapists from Morden Physiotherapy, doctors from Menzies Medical Centre, and dental hygienists from Boundary Trails Dental Centre.
More than just a picnic – It's a fundraiser
While the event itself is free to attend, the BBQ lunch, priced at $5 per combo, raises essential funds for the Morden Family Resource Centre’s programming.
“It’s our biggest fundraiser,” said Froese. “We really encourage people to stay for the BBQ lunch—it supports programs that are totally free for families in our community.”
The Centre currently offers four parent-and-child preschool programs weekly. These are made possible not only through grants but largely due to the generous support of the community.
“If we only had grants, we might be able to offer one program a week,” Froese explained. “Community support is what allows us to grow and serve families effectively.”
Extras, treats, and a trip down memory lane
Families are encouraged to bring their children and their favourite stuffed animals—be it a teddy bear, a doll, or even a plush snake—for a “check-up.” For Froese, this event also evokes memories from her own childhood.
“When I was growing up, it was mostly dolls. Now, my daughter has squishmallows all over her bed—sometimes I can’t even find her!” she laughed.
In addition to the BBQ, the event will feature face painting for a small fee ($2), a Coffee Truck, and The Icecycle for those looking to cool down with an ice cream treat.
“Bring a little extra for coffee and treats, and know that you’re supporting something incredibly important for Morden families,” Froese added.
The Teddy Bear Picnic will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 31. Admission is free. Families are encouraged to come out, enjoy lunch, and support local programming—all while helping their kids build comfort and familiarity with healthcare professionals.