At  HBNC, we believe that fostering a love of reading in children can transform lives. Thanks to the incredible generosity and dedication of our local community, the Read Bears Program continues to make a lasting impact—one bear, one book, and one child at a time.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Fraser Coast Artslink Creative Crafters

We are thrilled to acknowledge the Fraser Coast Artslink Creative Crafters, who have lovingly handcrafted 1,000 bears to support the Read Bears Program. These beautifully made bears will soon find their way into the arms of children, offering comfort and companionship as they embark on their reading journeys.

But their kindness doesn’t stop there—the group has also created 95 handmade stress balls, which will be a much-appreciated addition to our Mental Health Boxes, providing support and relief to those in need.

This initiative was made possible through a community grant from the Hervey Bay RSL, whose generous support has helped bring this project to life.

A Growing Legacy of Literacy and Support

Now in its 7th year, the Read Bears Program has made a remarkable impact:
📚 2,418 bears distributed to children since inception
📖 41,086 recorded reading sessions, fostering a love of books
🏫 18 partner schools across Queensland confirmed for 2025

HBNC is incredibly proud of this program’s growth and the positive effect it continues to have on young readers and their families.

Community Partnerships Making a Difference

The Read Bears Program would not be possible without the support of our valued community partners:

• Fraser Coast Regional Council Libraries are playing a vital role by donating a free book to every Year 1 student participating on the Fraser Coast as part of the First Five Forever Initiative. This partnership ensures that children not only receive a cuddly bear but also a book to help ignite their passion for reading.
• For the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Schools, the Blackall Range Lions Club has stepped up to lovingly craft and donate Read Bears, ensuring that young readers in their region also benefit from this meaningful initiative.

A Community United for Children’s Literacy

This incredible collaboration between local crafters, community organizations, and supporters highlights the power of working together. Whether through handmade bears, donated books, or school partnerships, every contribution is helping to create a future where literacy is accessible, engaging, and fun for all children.

From all of us at HBNC, thank you to every individual and organisation who has helped make Read Bears a success. Your generosity, compassion, and dedication are truly changing lives.

Interested in Donating to our Read Bears Program? Click Here. 

Thank you as always to Hervey Bay RSL for your generous, ongoing support of Comfort Kitchen.