When police show up at your door, it’s normally not the best of circumstances. But Tuesday, they were joined by Jolly Old Saint Nick to spread some Christmas joy.
For the Birch family, Christmas came early this year. Santa Claus a long with local law enforcement from Blair County showed up to their door with presents in hand.
Tiona Birch said, “It’s really exciting, the kids are happy. It’s a good Christmas.”
For 7 year old Kasir, it’s a bat mobile just like he asked for. For 1 year old Zori, a my little pony. For Logan Township Chief Tim Mercer, it’s their reactions that make the day special.
He explained, “Just to see the children’s reaction when they saw Santa Claus, it makes it all worth while. This is what we are here for, to serve the community.”
And of course Santa, making sure everyone can get into the Christmas spirit. Mr. Claus said, “It feels great to see the little ones be happy like that and to bring some joy to some people who may be a little less fortunate this year.”
Professionals Auto Body collects gifts and donations leading up to Christmas. They reach out to law enforcement to help find families in need. Jamie Robison from Professionals explained, “No one wants to go back to school after Christmas break, seeing what their friends got and them not having anything. Thinking they did something wrong that Santa couldn’t come by. That’s when we step in to help any family what we can.”
Police say they normally deal with people in the most negative of situations, so this is a nice change of pace.
Nichole Douglas from the Altoona Police Department detailed, “This feels great. This is a nice way to end the year. It feels really nice to see people in a different perspective and watch the kids faces light up. This is what it’s all about.”
For the Birch family the gifts are nice. But Tiona says there’s something more valuable coming out of this.
She said, “The memories and the moments and the smiles are the most important. “
Santa will join Professionals Auto Body and the police again for more early deliveries later this week.
