The Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) kicks off its annual Comfort Bear Toy Drive April 1-30, in partnership with Papa Murphy’s, 1625 E. Glendale Ave.

Comfort Bears are kept in the trunks of law enforcement vehicles for immediate use with children after a traumatic situation. “Children can at times feel intimidated or even scared by an officer in uniform,” said Sgt. Jimmy Chavez, president of AHPA. “A Comfort Bear can serve as a communication mechanism to put a child at ease and let them know that officers will always be there to help. The public’s support for our program is greatly appreciated.”

The AHPA asks those willing to help to drop off a new, stuffed animal at Papa Murphy’s, located in the Squaw Peak Plaza. This is the second year the take-and-bake pizza eatery has hosted the drive.

In exchange for a stuffed toy donation, diners will receive $5 off any family-sized pizza (limit one per household). The store is open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends. For more information, call 602-279-7272.