The Bears on Patrol program is designed to reduce the trauma suffered by children who are exposed to violence, abuse, or other upsetting incidents. Patrol officers are issued new, plush teddy bears that they carry with them while on patrol. As officers encounter children who are victims of traumatic incidents, they give bears to them. Officers report that the bears have been valuable to them in comforting upset children.
The program is funded by donations from community and civic groups. People interested in contributing to the program may call (317) 327-3424.