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NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) – New Orleans Police officers played the role of Santa’s helpers this morning (Dec. 15) at McDonogh City Park Academy.

When pre-K and kindergarten students came outside for a surprise assembly, they saw more than 100 bicycles waiting for them and NOPD officers handing them out.

“The event we are trying to set up is the opportunity for students to develop a relationship with our community resource officer,” says principal Brandon Phenix. “They can start right from a young age having a good relationship with our local law enforcement. And, we can build on that moving forward.”

The Police and Justice Foundation raised the money for the bikes, which came in two sizes and two models: one for boys and one for girls. The foundation accepted donations from residents and businesses in the NOPD First District, which includes McDonogh City Park Academy.