BRUNSWICK — It’s teddy bear time again at Downeast Energy.

The company will be collecting teddy bears from now through May 11 at its Brunswick, Bath and Lisbon Falls offices, with the stuffed animals being donated to Mid Coast Hospital and given to young patients undergoing medical treatment.

“Downeast Energy continues to be a wonderful supporter of our Teddy Bear Club and we are extremely grateful that we can count on them each year,” said Kara Johnson, Teddy Bear subcommittee chairwoman. “This program has brought many smiles and comfort to young patients during medical treatments, and we are appreciative of all the community support for this effort.”

Norma Poutree of Downeast Energy said in a news release, “Last year’s campaign was extremely successful. We collected a total of 77 bears and other various cuddly creatures to help support this wonderful program. We would love to increase the number of donated bears this year.”

More than 10 years ago, the Teddy Bear Club was started by a former employee of Mid Coast Hospital who collected bottles and cans for recycling. With the proceeds, she purchased bears and other stuffed animals for children who were undergoing a hospital procedure.

If you wish to donate a bear or other stuffed animal, it must be new and still have tags attached. The hospital would also prefer the bears be on the smaller size (approximately 12 inches). Teddy bears can be dropped off in the lobby of Downeast Energy’s Brunswick, Bath and Lisbon Falls offices.