Jacksonville's Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) is well known for its service to the community and to local charities. For more than 50 years, they have sponsored the Policeman's Christmas Party for students with disabilities in Duval County Public Schools. Physically impaired students, visually impaired students, and students in the deaf/hard of hearing center schools and their teachers were invited to this festive celebration.
More than 200 children attended this year's party at the Jacksonville Agricultural Fairgrounds. They arrived early morning in school buses paid for by the FOP organization. The parade of buses was led by a police motorcycle escort paving the way to the holiday party arena. The police escort is a favorite of both teachers and students.
Following a sing-a-long, the children were served a delicious turkey luncheon with all of the trimmings by uniformed police officers. Students received individual attention from the various members of the police force, including singing and coloring together. The students were also able to explore police cars and motorcycles, and visit with the police horses.
The highlight of the party however, was when the doors opened wide and a police cruiser drived into the building with its blue lights flashing, sirens blaring and “who should appear – it’s Santa!” shouting: “Merry Christmas to All!” The excitement and smiles on children’s faces was contagious and uplifting.
Sitting in front of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree on a comfortable sofa were both Santa and Mrs. Claus. With hugs the children were greeted and given a generous gift that was specially chosen for them. All classroom teachers also received boxes of much needed classroom supplies and resources. It's an event that surely warmed the heart with the Holiday Spirit!!
The Fraternal Order of Police is a non-profit organization that protects and defends the interests of law enforcement officers. In addition to negotiating wages, benefits and terms and conditions of employment, the FOP guards the health, welfare and safety of its members through education, training, communication, and legislative programs.
Submitted by Rosemarie Parsch, EE/SS Parent & Community Involvement
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