I want to take a moment to bring awareness to a few campaigns currently underway to increase support for these programs as we get closer to Christmas. These programs are not ones that you will receive an electronic voice message about soliciting money, nor are they the types that flood your mailbox with requests to send money to distant places. These are programs happening right here in our community to help those right here in our community.
The first of these programs is our annual “Shop with a Cop” program. Each year, we here in law enforcement work with the local school districts to identify children whose families could use an extra bit of help. We then contact these families and ask them to allow us to spend a day shopping for gifts—not just for that child, but for the child’s family as well. It is a humbling experience to shop alongside a child who, rather than running toward toys or electronic games, heads to the clothing section to get Dad some socks or Mom a new jacket. This is also a great opportunity for these children to see law enforcement in a way most don’t have the opportunity to experience. While our local law enforcement officers volunteer their time and donate many items themselves to make this day successful, we also count on donations to assist in our efforts. If you would like to donate to this cause, just give the Sheriff’s Department a call.
The second program, which has been in our county for over three decades, is the annual Toys for Tots campaign. This one holds a special place in my heart, as it is sponsored by the United States Marine Corps Reserve. In this program, boxes are placed throughout Kewaunee County, and on December 20th, these toys will be handed out to children whose parents have pre-registered as residents of Kewaunee County. Many great organizations and businesses assist in making this program a success year after year. To contribute, please drop off a new, unwrapped toy at any of the designated collection sites.
The third program, which actually assists residents of our county throughout the year, is our local Salvation Army Kettle Campaign. Like many of you, I have seen these kettles over the years at various locations during the Christmas season. Sometimes I dropped money in them, and sometimes I walked past. It wasn’t until I began working as a voucher writer for the Salvation Army that I realized the importance of this charitable organization—and the critical role these kettles play.
Throughout the year, I receive calls from people who have lost jobs, faced unforeseen medical expenses, or simply find themselves in need. We assist with rent, utilities, food, gas, and other basic essentials to help them through the crises they face. To support this program, you can, of course, drop money into the kettles located at various stops throughout the county. You can also give your time to ring bells at these sites, as donations are more likely when the kettles are staffed rather than sitting idle in a corner of a store entrance. It is a great way to spend time for a good cause and visit with people as they give. To volunteer, go to www.registertoring.com and follow the links to Kewaunee County.
If you have questions about any of these programs, please do not hesitate to contact me, and I can point you in the right direction. Just as shopping locally has the best impact on our communities, giving locally provides the best results for those here in Kewaunee County.
