Vermont Woman Spreads Hope with Teddy Bears for Children in Need

SOUTH BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – Nina Meyerhof, a South Burlington resident, is on a mission to invest in future generations by providing comfort to children in need through her teddy bear initiative. Meyerhof, who has dedicated her life to helping others, has traveled to conflict zones around the world, where she has witnessed both the best and worst of humanity.

Originally from New York, Nina moved to Vermont in the early 1970s, seeking a community where she could align her values with action. “I wanted to live my values… to stand for good things, to be connected to community, and to help each other,” Nina said.

During her career, she served as the special education director for ten schools in Wyndham County and founded the organization Children of the Earth. The initiative encourages young people to see themselves as global citizens who can work together to address the pressing issues in today’s world.

Nina expressed her strong belief that investing in children is essential, stating, “I realized that children were carrying the future.” Her deep commitment to youth stems from her desire to create a positive impact in the world.

Her journey has taken her to over 120 countries, where she remains optimistic despite the hardships she encounters. “I like to stand up for what I believe and build new,” she said, referring to her hope for global peace.

The teddy bear project began after the September 11 attacks, when Nina witnessed the chaos at the UN. In response to the trauma children faced, she called for stuffed animals to comfort them. The community responded, and soon, a bus filled with bears arrived from Oklahoma.

Over the years, thousands of teddy bears have been distributed to children in need, including 2,000 bears sent to Ukraine during the war. Nina recalls assisting mothers and children at the border while providing them with the loving stuffed animals.

Her mission has also led her to help those affected by disasters, including fires in California. She recounts a poignant moment with an elderly man holding a bear that reminded him of his late wife. “When you feel that story, you know, that was his story,” she said.

At 83 years old, while Nina’s days of traveling to danger zones may be winding down, her dedication to helping others remains unwavering. “Everyone’s life has meaning and relevance,” she said. “It’s up to us to use our lives well.” Indeed, her story embodies a life well lived.