NEW ORLEANS (press release) – Arnaud’s Restaurant announced the launch of its 11th annual Teddy Bear Program, beginning Thanksgiving Day, in partnership with the New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation (NOPJF). This holiday season, guests and community members are encouraged to join the longstanding tradition by donating new teddy bears and other stuffed animals. Collected donations will provide comfort to children in difficult situations.
From November 28 through December 31, Arnaud’s and other specified collection sites around town will collect teddy bears. Guests can drop their donations directly into the designated collection bins on-site at select locations. At the end of the collection period, the teddy bears will be donated to the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) for officers to place in their vehicles to distribute to children who have been traumatized due to tragedy or victimization.
“We’re honored to continue this beloved tradition with the New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation and grateful for the opportunity to provide a little extra comfort to local children this holiday season,” said Arnaud’s co-owner Katy Casbarian. “The Teddy Bear Program has become a meaningful way for our community to show support for children in difficult situations, and we look forward to another year of generosity and holiday spirit from our guests and public as a whole.”
The Teddy Bear Program is part of Arnaud’s commitment to fostering a compassionate, supportive New Orleans. Each bear donated helps to create positive memories for children who may be facing challenging experiences, providing a reminder that the community cares.
“NOPJF provides our NOPD officers with the training and tools to manage nearly every type of life-saving or dangerous situation. Arnaud’s Teddy Bear Program is a chance for the community to give our officers the tools to connect with our city’s most vulnerable, our children, in a meaningful way when it matters most,” said Melanie Talia, CEO of the New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation.
Collection bins will be placed at the below locations and accessible during normal hours of operation, unless otherwise noted.
For Arnaud’s Customers:
• Arnaud’s Restaurant
813 Bienville St.
New Orleans, LA 70112
5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., Monday – Saturday
10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Sunday
For General Public:
• New Orleans & Company, 2020 St. Charles Ave.
• NOPJF Headquarters, 320 Metairie-Hammond Highway, Suite 500
• NOPD Headquarters, 1615 Poydras Street
Arnaud’s Restaurant is located at 813 Bienville St. For reservations and more information, visit www.arnaudsrestaurant.com.
