The Fulton County Police Department is taking part in a new program to help children cope during difficult times.

The Atlanta Teddy Bear Patrol, a nonprofit organization started by a Sandy Springs lawyer, provides a little bit of comfort, in the form of a toy bear, to children who come into contact with police through accidents or other traumatic events.

Maj. Terry R. Shaw and Officer Doug Rainwater of the department's North Precinct, accepted 80 teddy bears Wednesday, Dec. 6 from Teresa S. Mills, creator of the Atlanta Teddy Bear Patrol.

The Fulton County Police Department is the first to receive bears from Mills' organization. At Mills' request, Monsignor Dillon of the Holy Spirit Catholic Church blessed the bears in a ceremony Thursday, Dec. 7 in the roll call room of the North Precinct. Maj. Ron M. Fuller of the department's South Precinct has been asked to participate in the program.

Target Corporation and State Farm Insurance Companies previously donated bears to the department for distribution to children in crisis.