Event will help officers and local children
You can donate to the Ellijay Police Foundation by using this QR code.
After nine years, Gilmer’s Shop With A Hero program is still going strong.
Every year, law enforcement officers have paired off with kids to buy Christmas presents.
“It’s incredibly fulfilling to see the smile on all those kids’ faces,” Ellijay Police Foundation (EPF) Vice Chair Matt Bond said. “And as a veteran, I’m a big proponent of our first responders, our police officers, Sheriff’s Department deputies and firefighters.”
The program relies on the EPF’s yearly fundraising event.
This year, the EPF plans to raise $10,000, he said.
“I believe in what we’re doing because of the combination of focus on both the community and our men and women in blue,” Bond said.
The money will go to several products that will help benefit the community.
These include the Christmas presents for kids, high-quality protective vests, upgraded safety equipment and scholarship opportunities for officers and students pursuing law enforcement careers.
Those interested in donating can use the QR code included in this article. Anyone with questions can call Bond at 404-520-1021.
While law enforcement can receive government funding for bulletproof vests and other equipment, getting grants can be an extremely time-consuming process.
It can save time and trouble when local nonprofits fill the gap, Bond said.
“[Grants are] not necessarily always readily available,” he said.
In the last few years, EPF has bought Gilmer law enforcement officers lighter bulletproof vests, vehicle upgrades and better radio equipment.
“It’s far-reaching where these funds go,” he said. “But it’s all for the benefit of not only the people who wear the uniform but the community as a whole.”
Those who donate $100 or more will receive recognition on EPF promotional materials and community acknowledgements.
Those who donate $250 will receive these as well as an EPF sponsor decal to display at their business.
Much of the support for the EPF comes from local businesses, including Appalachian Beverage, Pilgrims, United Community Bank and Walmart.
“There’s a great deal of things that we would like to continue to do and grow in as a foundation,” Bond said.