FOP 'Santa Drop' planning under way

Friday, November 6, 2015
Putnam County FOP members and Santa Claus get ready to make a delivery in the "FOP Santa Drop" undertaking during the last holiday season. (Courtesy photo)

For the nearly past 20 years the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 92 has delivered toys to needy children in Putnam County in a program known as the "FOP Santa Drop."

The project came about when Putnam County Sheriff's Department Capt. Jim Baugh and Assistant Chief Brian Hopkins had an anonymous person stop by the Cloverdale Police Department 19 years ago and make a $100 donation, asking that the money be spent on needy kids for Christmas.

Baugh and Hopkins then took that money and went and bought presents for as many children as they could. Then they decided it would be a great idea for Baugh to dress up as Santa Claus and deliver the presents in a fully marked police car, and 19 years later the FOP has continued the tradition.

Last year was biggest year yet for the program, providing toys to more than 40 children. Not only did they receive toys last year, they also received winter necessities such as coats, winter boots and hat, gloves and even school supplies.

The Putnam County Fraternal Order of Police would like to encourage the public's help again this year in helping children of Putnam County. One hundred percent of all the donations received will go toward presents for kids.

Applications are thoroughly screened and sorted with the most needy kids at the top of the list, officials stress. All presents are then wrapped and delivered by Santa Claus.

Donations can be dropped off at the Greencastle Police Department or mailed to Greencastle Police Department at 600 N. Jackson St., Greencastle, IN 46135.

If you or you know someone who is in need, applications can be picked up at the Greencastle Police Department during normal business hours (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Deadline for dropping off the applications is Dec. 7.

Anyone who has any questions about the program may contact GPD Assistant Chief Brian Hopkins at (765) 848-1539.

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