Chief Bratton Launches LAPD Holiday Toy Drive

Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Chief William Bratton announced the launch of the LAPD’s annual holiday toy drive today at a 1:00 P.M. news conference, held at the Ann Street Elementary School, north of Union Station.

"The best part of the holiday season is the giving," said Chief Bratton. "And for years your Los Angeles police officers have given away toys and books to local youngsters who might otherwise see the new year without receiving a gift."

Each of the 160 students of the elementary school received a toy, distributed by members of the LAPD’s Centurion Baseball Team, under the leadership of their team captain, Officer Michael Scott.

Persons are encouraged to drop off an unwrapped toy or book in any of the nineteen city police stations across the city.

Police officers will distribute the donated toys and new or gently used books to children and families in the local neighborhoods in the days before Christmas. Chief Bratton asks that books include an inspirational message written on the inside front cover of each book, wishing a a child Happy Holidays and a porsperous New Year. Thousands of toys and books are given away every year by LAPD officers around the holidays.

Holiday Toy Give-Aways – Winter 2006