Teens kick off department’s stuffed animal drive

Hollywood police are armed with dozens of stuffed animals, thanks to a youth group’s donation. Officers use the cuddly toys to console children in crisis.

Girls in PreCision Mentoring rounded up 150 Teddy bears and other critters as part of a community service project. Halfwere delivered to the Broward Sheriff’s Office in West Park. The others found a home in the Hollywood Police Department.

The donation launches an ongoing initiative to collect stuffed animals for officers to handout. The public can drop off new items at Hollywood police headquarters, located at 3250 Hollywood Blvd. The lobby is open from8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“It’s a phenomenal program,” said Hollywood Assistant Police Chief Chris O’Brien. “Our officers respond to all types of calls, whether it’s domestic violence, child abuse calls or vehicle accidents. When they come across a child that’s in need or a little bit scared, presenting them with a Teddy bear is an awesome opportunity to comfort the child. And you see a positive interaction between law enforcement and children.”

PreCision Mentoring members originated the drive. The girls, ages 7 to 18, benefit from their interactions with law enforcement mentors in the West Parkbased program. They wanted to share that experience with other kids.

“This summer they saw a lot of negativity around law enforcement and the unfortunate things happening across the country,” PreCision’s Felecia Brunson said. “They thought ofTeddy bears and wanted to connect the two, so children can be benefactors and see the positive side of police officers.”

Formerly the vice mayor of West Park, Brunson founded PreCision Mentoring 12 years ago. The nonprofit promotes self-esteem,