Buddy Bear Program
There are times when police officers, detectives, and Records Division personnel come in contact with children who have been involved in traumatic incidents. Often times by providing these children with something they can hold and cuddle, staff can help promote a feeling of safety and/or promote dialogue. The Beaverton Police Department has a collection of new bears, which are given to children in need of such reassurance.
If you wish to donate bears, please note the needs of the Department and the children receiving them. The stuffed animals need to be:
- Bears - after all, it's the buddy bear program,
- New stuffed animals with tags still on them - this allows the Department to know that the stuffed animals meet federal regulations such as being fire retardent,
- Soft - so kids can cuddle them, and
- No more than 16 inches tall - so kids can get their arms around the bears, and officers may fit them in their vehicles.
The Buddy Bear Program is a wonderful way to reach out to children within the community. The program thrives on the generosity of businesses and citizens. If you would like additional information about the program, or details on how you can make a donation, please call the Beaverton Police Department's public information officer at (503) 526-2275.
