MADISON, Wis. — "It's the most wonderful time of the year."

One of the greatest joys for children around the holidays is opening presents. However, many families in the Madison and Dane County area struggle to meet the financial means to provide for the holidays. The gift of a fuzzy teddy bear is a something that all kids cherish.

The second annual Teddy Bear Toss presented by BMO Harris Bank will take place at the men's hockey versus Michigan State game on Saturday, Dec. 8 to provide teddy bear gifts to local, underprivileged children here in Dane County.

Fans coming to the hockey game are encouraged to bring new teddy bears. If you don't have time to buy one yourself or forget, it's no problem! Stuffed animal bears and Bucky Badgers will be available for purchase at Bucky's Locker Room prior to the start of the game.

Through the gift of a teddy bear, our goal is to send a message of hope to the less fortunate. Wisconsin Athletics is proud of its long-standing relationship with the United States Marines Corp and its Toys for Tots campaign, as well as partnering with BMO Harris Bank to make this possible.

In order to throw the teddy bears onto the ice, every stuffed animal must be bagged. Teddy bear bagging-stations will be located at each gate entrance of the Kohl Center.

Join Wisconsin Athletics in this newfound tradition by throwing your bagged teddy bears down onto the ice.

Doors open one hour before the puck drops. Tickets are available here.

If you would like to learn more about, or donate to, visit Toys for Tots.