It appears the ranks of the Madison Police Department will soon grow, and it has nothing to do with a proposal to add 30 officers.

A new Middleton cafe is going to be collecting donations for the department's "bear squad".

As some may know, teddy bears - and other stuffed animals - are kept in the back of squad cars. Officers disseminate them as they encounter children who are in crisis situations. Some boys and girls are often in the midst of family fights or other domestic crimes. We have found that having a stuffed animal to hang on to, and to cuddle with, can often bring comfort.

Shannon Payette, the owner of "Bean Sprouts" cafe, recently sent an email to the MPD explaining the animal drive. She wrote, "Bean Sprouts believes in helping kids cultivate a spirit of sharing. Bean Sprouts is holding a Bring-A-Bear drive until the end of December. We are asking kids to donate a new or gently used stuffed animal. In return, they receive a free treat from our bakery case. All stuffed animals will be donated to the Madison Police Department."

Bean Sprouts is located at 6719 Frank Lloyd Wright Avenue in Middleton. Hours are Monday-Saturday from 10-7, and Sunday from 10-5. For more information, visit www.beansproutscafe.com or call (608) 826-6YUM.

Many citizens, and groups, have been very generous in helping the Madison Police Department keep the "bear squad" solvent, and we are very appreciative of all efforts.