GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – Members of the Green Bay Police Department spent part of their Wednesday bringing Christmas to those in need.
Officers passed out 50 ‘blessing bags’ as part of the ‘Light of Christmas’ initiative.
When it comes to who gets the bags, Captain Kevin Warych says it “really comes down to the discretion of the officer, who they meet, listen to the stories.”
The bags include various winter clothing items, and were accompanied by gift cards to local stores and restaurants.
Officer Barb Gerarden was passing out bags at the Micah Center.
“It’s a blessing to be a part of this. A lot of people struggle around Christmas. It’s not always happy for everyone. It’s nice to build on the relationships with the community.”
After receiving his bag, Kevin was asked if he feels efforts like this strengthens relations with law enforcement.
“It does, because you seem them around town helping people out, and they’re also here helping us, when we don’t always have family around to help us through this time of year.”
Nelson appreciated the gesture as well.
“It’s kind of a motivational thing. You know, giving people hope. Especially the situation that a lot of us are in, hope is a big thing.”
The Appleton, De Pere, Kaukauna, and Oshkosh police departments also took part in the program.
For Green Bay, this was their second year participating, having passed out 50 bags last year.
