Local businesses are teaming up to support a good cause by accepting donations as part of the “Teddy Bears of Love” program.

Boxes will be set up at various businesses around town, such as Bertolone Italian Café, Peoples Southern Bank, Durbin Farms and Sav-Mor Associated Foods.

“We tried to put them in prominent places that people could easily view on a regular basis,” Bertolone marketing manager Vicky Jenrette said.

A total of 14 local businesses are supporting the cause that will donate bears to the Clanton Police Department, Clanton Fire and Rescue units, the Chilton County Sheriff’s Department and Butterfly Bridge.

Each local outfit will use the bears in situations that arise where a child is involved and needs to be comforted through the ordeal.

According to Chilton County Sheriff John Shearon, the bears have been used in a variety of circumstances over the years.

From a child abuse situation to a bad wreck on a roadway, the bears offer a much-needed calming presence, Shearon said.

“It doesn’t necessarily take the pain away, but it helps to put smile on their face, and allows them to re-focus their attention,” Shearon said.

According to Jenrette, the original goal was to collect 100 bears total.

However, the boxes have not even been up for a week, and the community support has been more than expected, which may cause the total amount to rise somewhere around 200.

“The people of Clanton understand the concept of helping their neighbors,” Jenrette said.

The program will be accepting donations for the next month to six weeks.

Those interested in making a donation are asked to drop off a new or gently used Teddy bear. Call (205) 217-1613 with any questions.