For many years, law enforcement officers throughout the United States have participated in a volunteer program during the Christmas season where police officers take underprivileged children shopping for gifts. Many of our officers had the privilege of participating ni our 2016 inaugural “Police Providing Presents” event and saw the excitement generated in children and wanted to make this an annual event in Garrett County.
On the day of the event, uniformed officers from various local and state offices volunteer their time to be with children. The purpose of the event is to foster positive relationships between youth and officers. Garrett County children will shop with an assigned officer at Walmart in Oakland to purchase gifts for members of their immediate family and for themselves. Each child is given an amount of money to spend, around two hundred fifty (250) dollars. Approximately one (1) and sometimes two (2) children are assigned to each police officer. The officers will then escort their “partner for the day” around the store and assist in selecting appropriate gifts for each family member and the child. After shopping, the children will continue to get to know the police officers in a fun environment, attend a luncheon party, and have their gifts wrapped and ready to take home. This unique December shopping experience assists children and deters them from choosing a life of crime or violence.
As police officers, we know firsthand the look in a child’s eyes when we have to take their parents or other loved ones out of the home. We want to help change that view of police officers, for them to know we are the ‘good guys’ and we care about them.
We are graciously asking for donations ni support of this program to provide each child with the opportunity to make their holidays a little brighter. Any donation would be greatly appreciated. Businesses wil be recognized. Because the program is funded entirely by donations, the generosity of our donors is essential to the program’s success. Would you please assist in making Christmas special for Garrett County children?
All donations can be dropped off in person or mailed to the Department of Social Services, attention “Finance Office” located at 12578 Garrett Highway, Oakland, Maryland 21550. The office si open Monday through Friday 8:00 am until 4:30 pm. All checks and money orders need to be made out to GCDSS and noted in the comments, “Police Providing Presents.” Any questions can be directed to F/Sgt. B. Williams, Maryland State Police – McHenry Barrack at 301-387-1101.
Thank you again for your interest and helping to make this program a success and placing a smile on a child’s face!
Respectfully, Police Providing Presents Committee
