Operation Christmas Cheer

As we all know, 2020 was a year of uncertainty.  It has continued to be a challenging 2021, but we all hope that we will all continue to stay positive, and be able to move forward.

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The purpose of the event is to foster positive relationships between the youth and officers in our community.  The goal is to break down the barriers between the community and the police with the intent of developing a better and more trusting relationship with our youth.

 

Kids in grades, K - 8th, were selected at the end of the year to shop at one of the local area stores to purchase gifts for the holiday. Each child was given a selected amount to spend, on themselves or immediate family members. Approximately 1-2 children were assigned to an officer, who escorted them around the store to assist in selecting appropriate gifts

 

Shop with a Cop - part of the Operation Christmas Cheer - reinforces the idea of sharing and giving during the holidays. It also promotes the idea that our law enforcement role models are crucial to the development of our youth. The positive experience that each child received from “Shop with a Cop” is one that we hope will never be forgotten.

 

In 2020, many families fell into financial hardship due to the Corona Virus pandemic. The New Smyrna Beach Police Department needed our help with donations of gift cards for children who may be in need for some Christmas cheer.

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From all of us at the Rotary Club of NSB, we would like to thank Officer Washington, and the New Smyrna Beach Police Department.