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METAIRIE, La. (WGNO) – The Krewe of Iris is collecting teddy bears to donate to the New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation and the NOPD to bring comfort to children in distress in our community.  And what better way to spread joy, than with a teddy bear?

“This is something that’s theirs, it means the world to them,” says Joy Starr with the Krewe of Iris.

“We already have probably close to 800 bears collected at Arnaud’s Restaurant. It’s a great cause and I’m glad they continue to pour in,” says Danielle Walker, the Krewe of Iris officer.

Walker is spearheading Monday’s Teddy Bear Drive and says these bears really do make a difference.

If a child is involved in a scary situation that requires police presence, this is one heartfelt tool an officer can use to bring smiles in times of crisis.