(Click “Like” to become a fan of the Palm Coast Observer.)

Flagler County Sheriff’s deputies are gearing up for next month’s shopping outing with local children as part of the Christmas with a Deputy event. Parents must fill out an application and return it before Nov. 15.

Children from 5 to 14 years of age are eligible to participate in the program provided they meet certain economic criteria. The young shoppers also must not be receiving holiday assistance from any other program and they may not have been a prior participant in Christmas with a Deputy.

Applications are available from the Sheriff’s Office website at www.myfcso.us, from childrens' schools, at the Robert E. McCarthy Substation in Palm Coast, or at the Sheriff’s Operation Center in Bunnell.

“We want to help local kids who may not otherwise have a Christmas,” said Sergeant Larry Jones, founder of the program. “This whole thing is about the kids.”

When the program first began in 2008, funding covered the participation of 12 Flagler County children.

This year, it will serve 100 children, thanks to support from Sheriff's Office employees, community donations and a partnership with Target.

“Target has supported this effort since its inception," Jones said. “The event has continued to grow year after year because of the community support we have received. We are grateful for that.”

Flagler County Sheriff Donald W. Fleming is hoping this year’s event will draw even more local support.

“For a $150 donation, a Flagler County youngster could be funded for this event," Fleming said. "This is
a very special project initiated by Sergeant Jones, which has my full support."

To donate, contact Jones at ljones@myfcso.us.

 

• SHARE
• Email This Page
• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Share on Google Bookmarks