Northeast LA. Association of Realtors Donation to OPSO Helps Children Cope with Trauma

Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Deputies frequently face situations where young children have to cope with a traumatic event.  It might involve a car accident, the death or serious injury of a family member, domestic violence, or possibly the child is a victim.  As a way to help these children cope with the trauma, the Northeast Louisiana Association of Realtors has donated toy teddy bears to the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office.  President Al Peterson (pictured left) said the Association is always looking for ways to give back to the community.  This year, the Association sponsored a Teddy Bear Picnic, where the members brought the toy bears to their luncheon meeting to donate to the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The deputies will keep the bears in their patrol units and in the Investigative Division to give to the children they encounter that need help to cope with tragedy in their lives.  “During these type situations where children are dealing with trauma, gifts such as stuffed animals given to the children by the deputies actually help comfort them” said Sheriff Russell.  “It also helps build trust between the deputy and children, showing them the deputies are their friends and they can turn to them when they need help.”  Sheriff Russell and the Deputies of the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office express their sincere thanks the Northeast Louisiana Association of Realtors and President Al Peterson for their contribution and sincere concern for these children.