Spreading Smiles

The SLU Police Department is on a mission to bring as many smiles as possible to the patients at Children's Hospital and they need your help.

Every great organization starts with a desire to make a difference. LEOs (Law Enforcement Officers) and Lions for Little Ones is no exception. The Southeastern Louisiana University Police Department, led by Lieutenant Ronald Plaisance and Sergeant Michelle Blanchard, created LEOs and Lions for Little Ones in 2022 with the full support of Chief Michael Beckner. The organization collects toys for the patients at Children’s Hospital of New Orleans throughout the year, with an extra push during the holidays.

Lieutenant Ronald Plaisance was inspired to create a toy drive by his cousin who has been successfully hosting toy drives on the West Bank for the last 15 years. He knew they could help the community come together and give back. Each toy donated is distributed to children who are not able to be home with their families for the holidays.

“Last year we were able to fill two police cars from the ceiling to the floor. The staff at Children’s told us it was the largest delivery they had received, and that felt pretty good,” said Lieutenant Plaisance.

There are two options for toy donations. For those who like to go shopping personally, new and unwrapped toys can be dropped off in the UPD lobby 24-7. Those who would rather shop electronically can scan the QR-code at the bottom of this article and purchase a toy from the approved toy list provided on the UPD’s Amazon page. The online orders will be shipped directly to Lieutenant Plaisance’s team.

Participants can choose toys for every age ranging from newborn to teenagers. This includes books, games, and electronics. For more information on what types of toys can be donated, consult the Children’s Hospital’s approved toy list. Keep in mind, any non-approved toys will not be able to be donated. The organization is currently not accepting monetary donations, however, non-toy items such as tape and wrapping paper are greatly appreciated.

The donated items are first inspected by the hospital staff then the toys are set out for the parent’s to “shop” and pick the toys they feel suit their child best. The toys are then wrapped and delivered to the patients on Christmas morning.

“I hope we get a big turn out this year!” Sergeant Michelle Blanchard shared, "We can really make a difference for a lot of kids with the community's help."

To learn more about the LEOs and Lion’s toy drive, scan the QR code below and follow the link to the UPD’s website. Flyers are also posted throughout SLU’s campus, or you are welcome to contact the UPD directly.