NEW ORLEANS – Arnaud’s Restaurant, along with the the New Orleans Police & Justice Foundation (NOPJF), dropped off 1,100 cuddly teddy bears to the NOPD for children and families in need as a result of the 2nd annual Teddy Bear Program. Last year, 500 bears were collected in the program’s inaugural year.
The public was encouraged to donate new and unused Teddy Bears November 12 through December 31, 2015. The Teddy Bears will be placed in NOPD vehicles for officers to distribute to children and family members they encounter that have been traumatized due to tragedy or victimization.
“I am pleased to partner with Arnaud’s and the New Orleans Police & Justice Foundation once again on this important initiative to provide support to children who have been affected by violence,” said NOPD Superintendent Michael Harrison. “Every day, our officers encounter young children and families who have been traumatized by a violent situation through no fault of their own. These teddy bears give us an opportunity to connect with and comfort these young victims. I am thankful for everyone who donated to this important program, and to Arnaud’s and the NOPJF for their ongoing support of our officers who work every day to keep New Orleans safe.”
Collection bins were placed inside Arnaud’s Restaurant, New Orleans City Hall, New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau, and NOPJF headquarters. Other local organizations joined in on the spirit of giving, including the Krewe of Iris, Louisiana Restaurant Association and the Press Club of New Orleans.
