BROKEN BOW–‘Tis the season for giving thanks and sharing gifts. Local law enforcement officers participate in the Santa Cop program in which they deliver Christmas toys and clothing to kids in the area who otherwise might not receive gifts.
The twelfth annual Santa Cop lunch served about 165 people and raised more than $2,300 on Sunday afternoon in Broken Bow. The Custer County chapter of the Salvation Army said approximately 160 kids received gifts last year thanks to the donations raised to benefit local families.
“We send out applications to families in need and then they send us lists for the children–toys that they want. And then we go shopping and purchase them and wrap them. Law enforcement in the area deliver them [gifts],” Salvation Army Chairperson Julie Toline said.
Family applications are due November 19 for the Santa Cop program.
“It makes sure that the kids who might not get a gift get one. And we try to make sure it’s something they want by sending out applications,” Carol Allen said.
Salvation Army representatives Julie Toline and Carol Allen gave a huge thank you to the sponsors for this year’s event including the Knights of Columbus, Grocery Kart, Subway, Custer County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol, and the Broke Bow Police Department.
“We just really appreciate the Knights of Columbus for putting this on for us and making all the food. They do a great job,” Toline said.
Anyone interested in donating to the program can mail checks to Julie Toline at 116 S 11th Ave, Broken Bow, NE 68822. Please make checks payable to SANTA COP.
