Bear hugs are commonplace, but Buffalo Hugs are a rare breed.

Buffalo Hugs, soft black and gold cuddly dolls with the University of Colorado, Boulder, Buffalo logo embroidered on them, are brightening the spirits of hospitalized children in Denver and Boulder.

The Buffalo Hugs are delivered by student-athletes and coaches at the school who make personal visits to children in area hospitals. Colorado Chancellor Richard Byyny even helped deliver some last fall.

"It's an opportunity to send the spirit of good will and a message of hope to those children who are afflicted by long-term illness," said Jeannie Dixon, Colorado's assistant athletics director for community relations.

"We have formed this partnership to say that we are one in our concern and in our interest in the community. The student-athletes serve as ambassadors, and they are great at giving inspiration these kids need."

The dolls are designed by Cancellieri's Anybuddy Productions, Inc., a company that first printed pillow cases to emphasize the importance of giving and receiving hugs.

For more information about Buffalo Hugs, or to make a donation to the program, call Colorado's Community Relations office at 303/492-8384.