APPLETON, WI (WTAQ) – The Appleton Police Department has found a reason to change their looks and a long running policy.
Goatees and purple hair extensions can now be found in the department walls, both breaking uniform code, but Sergeant Dave Lund says all for a good cause.
“Many have been wanting to have a goatee for years, so it’s a different look we have right now” Lund said.
The “Goatees for Good” campaign was started as a way to raise money and show support for one of their very own officers, who lost a child to a rare medical condition last month.
Those participating are paying 20 dollars a month in November and December for their fashion statement, with the money going towards the Ronald McDonald House and to suppot the family of “Iron Macy”, as the department knew her by.
Lund says almost 30 guys are growing a goatee…including guys that normaly would not, like himself.
“I would not typically wear a goatee, but I have been coerced to wearing one for these couple of months”
Lund said they also had a pretty good turnout of women in the Department who are paying to wear purple hair extensions.
“Our agency chooses not to allow officers to have a beard or goatee” said Lund. “We have a pretty strict dress code here.”
The Chief thought it was a good time to waive that policy for a couple of months for a good cause.
Since the beginning of the month, the Appleton Police Department has raised over $2,400 dollars, and the community can also show their support.
Anyone who wishes to acknowledge who the donation is being made in memory of, are asked to indicate “Iron Macy”.
Donations will also be accepted at the Appleton Police Department.
If donating with a check, you are asked to indicate “Ronald McDonald House of Milwaukee” on the payee line.
At the end of December, the Police Department will donate all funds received directly to the charity.
