Lawnmower Pull Raises Funds for Cops and Kids Christmas Program

A lot of needy children will have a happier Christmas this year, thanks to the response from this weekend’s lawnmower pull.

Sponsored by the local chapter of the Fraternal Order of Police, spokesman Franklin County Sheriff’s Deputy Jeff Love says the turn out Saturday was better than expected.

“We did have a good turnout,” he said. “It was all benefiting the Fraternal Order of Police Kids and Cops shopping event. We raised, $1,667, which was fantastic.”

Love said another $700 was raised from two drawings for hunting rifles.

He said that will allow FOP Chapter 105 to take children Christmas shopping again this year.

“Last year we sponsored 26 children and this year we will be between 26 and 36 children,” Love said. “The officers will walk around with the kids and families and will encourage them to get what they need first and then save some money for presents. But we encourage them to get what they need, such as clothes, first.”

Love said many of the children will buy presents for their siblings as well as for themselves.

“Yes, the parents will often ask that one child buy for a sibling and vice versa so they can be surprised at Christmas. It’s very heartwarming to see.”

And Love said there is still time for families to sign up if they would like their child to receive help from the Fraternal Order of Police Cops and Kids program.

“We will be receiving applications through November 20th either a 92.1 WLHR or at the Franklin County Sheriff’s office or the Hart County Sheriff’s office,” he said.

Chapter 105 takes anywhere from 25 to 50 children shopping for Christmas at the local Wal-mart in Toccoa.

Law enforcement officers from Franklin, Hart, Stephens and Banks counties will be participating in this year’s program.