FOP seeking donations to fund annual Santa Drop

Buddy the Elf will now join Santa Claus, The Grinch and, most importantly, a number of local police officers, for the FOP Santa Drop gift shopping and distribution.

Courtesy photo

It’s that time again, and Christmas is just around the corner. The Putnam County Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) is gearing up for its 25th annual “FOP Santa Drop” to help Children in Putnam County have a merry Christmas.

“This program has been successful because people like you and the Putnam County Fraternal Order of Police would like your help again this year,” Greencastle City Police Assistant Chief Brian Hopkins said.

The FOP Santa Drop provides less-fortunate children from the community an opportunity to experience the Christmas spirit with local law enforcement. It provides law enforcement personnel, citizens and businesses an opportunity to give back to the community and share in the spirit of giving.

The FOP works closely with other organizations, so applications are thoroughly screened and sorted with most needy children at the top of the list. The presents are then delivered by Santa Claus, The Grinch, Buddy the Elf and local law enforcement.

The program requires a lot of advanced planning, so you might even see Santa, Buddy the Elf and The Grinch helping local Law Enforcement officers shopping for presents at Walmart on Dec. 13 at 9 a.m.

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

If you or a family member needs assistance this year, contact The Giving Tree (765) 301-6170. The Putnam County FOP obtains names for assistance from the Giving Tree.

If you have any questions feel free to contact Assistant Chief Hopkins at (765) 848-1539.