Helen's Hugs

Our Mission: Helen’s Hugs was founded by Helen Clay in 2010, in conjunction with Central Carolina Community Foundation, while she was a freshman at Heathwood Hall. What began as a simple idea has grown into a heartfelt mission—with more than 3,000 children receiving a teddy bear at Prisma Health.

Through regular Build-A-Bear workshops, Helen’s Hugs creates and donates 50 to 100 bears at a time for hospitalized children. In 2026, Helen’s Hugs will also deliver to patients with cancer and blood disorders attending Camp Kemo. Each bear is more than a gift—it’s a source of comfort, courage, and hope during difficult days.

Helen's Story: As a childhood cancer survivor of aggressive stage four cancer, Helen remembers firsthand the fear and uncertainty of long hospital stays. After a summer of treatment at Prisma, she was inspired to give back and bring encouragement to children walking a similar path. Helen enjoys spending time with patients and their families to offer support, hope, and a reminder that they are not alone while delivering teddy bears.

Your Impact: Helen’s Hugs is a small nonprofit with a big mission, and every donation makes a direct impact. All contributions go directly toward funding these special teddy bears for hospitalized children. 

Your gift can make a difference!

• $36 provides one bear—bringing comfort to one child
• $180 provides 5 bears
• $360 provides 10 bears

Interested in making an even greater impact? Fund an entire hospital delivery!

• $1,850 provides 50 bears
• $3,700 provides 100 bears

Our Goal: Raising $22,000 will fund 6 hospital deliveries of 100 bears.

Thank you for helping Helen bring hope, comfort, and a hug when it’s needed most.

Give a child a hug, and give hope for tomorrow!

Hugs,

Helen Clay, Founder

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” - Joshua 1:9