O’Hara police recently read to children at A Place to Grow Learning Center in the township.

Police Superintendent Jay Davis, Deputy Superintendent Pat Goodman and social worker Kayla Somerville met with the estimated 200 youths ages 12 weeks to 5 years old on Sept. 4.

It was for the center’s annual invitation for back-to-school time and to celebrate community helpers.

“It really helped the kids become familiar with police officers, and they learn (that police) are not someone to be feared. That they are friends and helpers,” said learning center director/general manager Nicole Bush, of Plum.

“Like anybody, they can be scary to little ones. We want them to know that they are helpers and they are friends. If (children) are ever lost or in distress, we don’t want them to hide (from police). We want them to feel comfortable and confident when meeting any law enforcement.”

The special guests read Richard Scarry’s “A Day at the Police Station,” which tells the story of Bridget spending a day with Sgt. Murphy and learning about all the daily mayhem of working at a police station.

Activities include helping Busytown citizens find their lost items, handling huge traffic jams and more.

Davis said it is one of his favorite books to share with youngsters.

“(We) are always grateful for the opportunity to engage with children at the local daycares in O’Hara Township and Blawnox borough,” Davis said. “Our goal is to promote trust by connecting with the kids in a safe and friendly environment. We emphasize that police officers are here to help and are approachable. We even encourage the children to ask their parents to say hello when they see us out in public, helping to build that trust beyond the classroom.

“We also want to strengthen relationships with families and caregivers by showing that community outreach is an important part of the mission of the O’Hara Township Police Department.”

The learning center has been in business for 24 years. It was originally in Aspinwall and moved to O’Hara in 2010. Bush is one of its original staffers.

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