The program was interested in helping children who were missed
by other programs, and who were not going to have Christmas due to circumstances
beyond their control. The Police and Fire Departments, through their community contacts, are familiar with children
who are from families with difficult financial situations as well as difficult
family situations. The high cost of living and jobs with lower pay rates in San Rafael cause added burdens of raising a family in this area.
The San Rafael Police Department,
San Rafael Fire Department, and the North Bay Footprinters saw this need to help these less
fortunate children. They formed a group that collected toys and food and distributed these at Christmas time.
In the second year of the program, money was collected
to buy a set of clothes for each child.
The backing of the City of San Rafael
and its businesses and residents kept this program growing and in 2005, they provided toys,
food, and clothing for over 600 children. Many of these children are from the Head Start and The Marin Abused Women programs. The families are required to complete an application to ensure they fit the
requirements. All families are cross checked to make sure they are not receiving
aid from other programs for the Christmas holiday, and that they are truly in need.
The program has been lucky enough to collect all of the toys and money through word of mouth within our
community. All toys and clothing are gift wrapped by volunteers prior to
their delivery to the families. In 2005, over 150 people wrapped the gifts.
The Marin Food Bank has donated a holiday meal and food for us to distribute to the families we serve.
Personnel from the Police and Fire departments as well as volunteers
from the Footprinters deliver the gifts and food to each recipient’s home.
When a uniformed officer or firefighter knocks on their door, there are emotions of confusion to joy. This interaction between the safety officers and the community builds a bond and trust that is priceless.
The families are receiving assistance during a time it is needed the most.
The trust and confidence it builds between the families and the safety officers
can last a lifetime.
Santa Cop is run entirely by volunteers. There
are no paid personnel or positions. There are also no charges or any money or services
ever requested from a recipient family. The largest expenditure is for clothing and a few supplies such as wrapping
paper.
The focus of the program is to collect and donate within the
city of San Rafael so we can build a better community.
Santa
Cop will keep the magic of Christmas alive for the children as long as there is a need.
