Denver Zoo's New Mascot Will Visit Kids At Children's Hospital
DENVER (CBS4) - The Denver Zoo welcomed a new addition Sunday that will likely put a smile on any child's face. The new mascot is a big part of the zoo's new partnership with Children's Hospital.
"Elbert" is smarter than the average bear.
"He likes dancing," a young zoo patron said.
Elbert is the newest mascot for the zoo. He's a "healthy" bear highlighting the zoo's new partnership with Children's Hospital. In addition to his home at the zoo, Elbert will travel to Children's Hospital at least once a month to visit young patients.
"Those days get really long for children who can't get out of bed, and some children are there for months," Jena Hausmann with Children's Hospital said.
Zoo and hospital administrators will stress to children Elbert's and other bears' healthy eating, sleeping and exercise habits.
"Healthy eating habits, so, they eat a lot of fish, they eat a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables," Hausmann said.
The hope is that in addition to helping sick children get better, it will help other children stay healthy and out of the hospital.
"What we can do to keep kids out of a hospital, to keep them healthy, is a key part of our mission," Hausmann said.
LINKS: Denver Zoo | Children's Hospital