People need to remember that there are many kind members of law enforcement.
Jennifer Chavez said these words. She works in the victim’s assistance unit at the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office.
Chavez and other members of the sheriff’s office spent Saturday morning participating in the Bikers vs. Sheriff’s annual softball game, school supply drive and poker run because they genuinely care about people in need.
“Especially with what’s going on around the country, so many times people want to view police officers, sheriff’s deputies in a negative light,” she said. “I think us being involved shows the everyday side of us. Deputies are part of our community, they raise their kids in the community. A lot of the guys are just coming off the graveyard shift but still want to be involved because it’s a great cause.”
The sheriff’s office donated items and cash.
“The participants could either donate $3 or some school supplies to play,” Chavez said.
Melissa Alcon, event coordinator and member of the Brother/Sisterhood of Bikers, started the event six years ago.
“I grew up in a low-income neighborhood, and my parents didn’t have a lot of money. So living in those neighborhoods, I saw firsthand a lot of children going to school without a lot of supplies they needed,” she said. “I’ve talked to many parents who are struggling with being able to supply these supplies for their kids. As a member of this community and as a parent myself, I felt the obligation to assist these parents.”
She said last year they provided backpacks filled with school supplies for more than 700 kids.
“The reason why I’m pushing so hard for this event is because last year we had to turn away kids because we didn’t have enough school supplies,” Alcon said. “This year our goal is to have enough for 1,000 kids.”
The supply drive is in need of additional donations. To donate, call Alcon at 719-281-6313.
Children will be able to pick up backpacks with supplies and receive free haircuts and pizza at noon Aug. 21 at Bradford Park, 1400 E. Second St. The supplies will be handed out on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no registration for the event.
(Via: The Pueblo Chieftain)
