Floor Speech2026-06-02

CELEBRATING THE TEDDY BEAR DEN ON ITS 30TH ANNIVERSARY

Context

On 2026-06-02, Representative Dusty Johnson (R-SD) delivered a floor speech titled "CELEBRATING THE TEDDY BEAR DEN ON ITS 30TH ANNIVERSARY" in the House.

Full Text

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 93 (Tuesday, June 2, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 93 (Tuesday, June 2, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E511] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING THE TEDDY BEAR DEN ON ITS 30TH ANNIVERSARY ______ HON. DUSTY JOHNSON of south dakota in the house of representatives Tuesday, June 2, 2026 Mr. JOHNSON of South Dakota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Teddy Bear Den as they celebrate 30 years of service to mothers, babies, and families in Sioux Falls and the surrounding communities. Since opening its doors in June 1996, the Teddy Bear Den has helped more than 48,000 women by encouraging healthy pregnancies, regular prenatal care, and strong early childhood support for families facing financial hardship. Led at the helm by Executive Director Sandy Lown, the Teddy Bear Den has grown from serving fewer than 200 women annually to nearly 1,900 women today. They provide education, transportation assistance, support, guidance, and essential baby incentive items to mothers who maintain healthy lifestyles and attend prenatal and baby appointments. Through partnership with hundreds of healthcare providers, schools, clinics, and social service agencies, the Teddy Bear Den has become a trusted resource for families. The impact of the Teddy Bear Den would not be possible without its dedicated volunteers, donors, staff, and board members. Last year alone, volunteers contributed more than 6,100 hours of service, helping the organization continue its mission of supporting healthier moms and babies. As the Teddy Bear Den marks this important milestone, I congratulate everyone who has contributed to its success over the past three decades. South Dakota is grateful for the compassion, dedication. and care this organization has shown to thousands of families. and I wish them continued success in the years ahead. ____________________

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CELEBRATING THE TEDDY BEAR DEN ON ITS 30TH ANNIVERSARY Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 93 (Tuesday, June 2, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 93 (Tuesday, June 2, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E511] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING THE TEDDY BEAR DEN ON ITS 30TH ANNIVERSARY ______ HON. DUSTY JOHNSON of south dakota in the house of representatives Tuesday, June 2, 2026 Mr. JOHNSON of South Dakota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Teddy Bear Den as they celebrate 30 years of service to mothers, babies, and families in Sioux Falls and the surrounding communities. Since opening its doors in June 1996, the Teddy Bear Den has helped more than 48,000 women by encouraging healthy pregnancies, regular prenatal care, and strong early childhood support for families facing financial hardship. Led at the helm by Executive Director Sandy Lown, the Teddy Bear Den has grown from serving fewer than 200 women annually to nearly 1,900 women today. They provide education, transportation assistance, support, guidance, and essential baby incentive items to mothers who maintain healthy lifestyles and attend prenatal and baby appointments. Through partnership with hundreds of healthcare providers, schools, clinics, and social service agencies, the Teddy Bear Den has become a trusted resource for families. The impact of the Teddy Bear Den would not be possible without its dedicated volunteers, donors, staff, and board members. Last year alone, volunteers contributed more than 6,100 hours of service, helping the organization continue its mission of supporting healthier moms and babies. As the Teddy Bear Den marks this important milestone, I congratulate everyone who has contributed to its success over the past three decades. South Dakota is grateful for the compassion, dedication. and care this organization has shown to thousands of families. and I wish them continued success in the years ahead. ____________________