Santa Claus, Philadelphia Police Officers Deliver Gifts To Families In 14th District
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Philadelphia police officers, along with Santa Claus, made some special deliveries on Christmas morning in the city's 14th District. Officers delivered gifts and clothes, plus a food basket to feed a family for close to a week.
It's that time of year, and just like years past on Christmas Day, a number of children from Philadelphia's 14th Police District are in for a special treat.
"Our job is to lock up bad guys, but to also this is our job too, our job is also to try to give back whenever we can," Officer Dennis Smith said.
No need to worry about which package belongs to who, gifts are tagged, so when children like Khazair or Zion go in to rip the wrapping, there will be no mistake -- their names are clearly marked.
As usual, Santa Claus is bringing holiday cheer.
Many families have been hit hard due to COVID-19.
"Especially because of the pandemic, it's really been tough on some families. Jobs have been lost, people can't work, and people just need a little bit of something extra to help out with their kids," Smith said.
Not only is each sponsored child receiving a special surprise, but the entire family receives a food basket.
"We don't do it for the spotlight. We do it, I do it because I want to do it. It's in my heart to do it," Smith said.
The gift drop-off process is a little different this year social distancing and the safe transfer of presents are a must.
"Previous years when you go into these houses and you see the kids basically don't have anything and the parents breaking down with tears of joy, it just fills your heart up," Smith said.
Those smiles are not always easy to find.
In the end, it's always worth it.
For Christmas, children receiving these gifts and the officers involved are left feeling fulfilled.
The gifts went to 15 families who were nominated by community leaders.
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