Puritan Products Provides Funds to Enhance American Red Cross Scrubby Bear Hand Washing Program for Children

  BETHLEHEM, Pa., (Jan. 24, 2011) – Puritan Products, Inc., presented a check for $2,500 to the American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley for use in enhancing the agency’s Scrubby Bearâ program. The program teaches children the importance of good hand washing habits in fighting germs and preventing colds.

The program consists of anti-germ fighting mascot Scrubby Bearâ who reminds children and adults that infection can be fought through frequent hand washing.

 “We are proud to support the American Red Cross, one of the most recognizable humanitarian organizations in the world,” Puritan Products President and General Manager Lou DiRenzo stated. “It’s wonderful to know that through this program we can help promote healthier children.”

Puritan’s DiRenzo and Executive Vice President/ Technical Director Tom Starner presented the ceremonious check to Red Cross Regional Executive John R. Hughes, Youth Services Specialist Sherri Boehm, and ‘spokesbear’ Scrubby Bearâ at the Puritan Products facility, Lehigh Valley Industrial Park I in Bethlehem.

 “When Lou heard that our Scrubby Bear program was in dire need of a ‘makeover,’ he immediately offered to help us clean up our image, so to speak, by donating the funds to purchase a new, kid-friendly bear costume,” Hughes said. “We were also able to purchase new program materials and handouts.”

The program is administered by Boehm and Red Cross teen volunteers. “Our youth really enjoy wearing the costume and interacting with the kids. Through story, song and activities, the Scrubby Bearâ program is a fun and memorable lesson. Kids love Scrubby.”

The 20-minute presentation is free and available for children in grade-levels K-3 in schools, faith-based organizations, hospitals, day cares and after-school clubs and programs. The presentation includes Scrubby Bearâ (in costume), a health curriculum for use by teachers, stickers, “Clean Hands Club” pledge cards, poster and coloring pages.

Scrubby Bear presentations may be arranged by contacting Boehm at 610-865-4400, ext. 253 or BoehmS@usa.redcross.org.

 “In addition, because of their level of financial support, Puritan Products is now recognized as one of our 14 trusted Community Partners,” Hughes added. Through the Community Partner Program, businesses become partners with a well-known brand – the American Red Cross – and receive a full year of publicity, promotion, employee benefits, and event sponsorship.

 Puritan Products has provided funding for health and safety programs for other organizations including the Burn Prevention Foundation, Lehigh County Haz-Mat, Han-Le-Co Volunteer Fire Company and the Two Rivers Council of Governments.