Santa’s coming early to parts of Manawatu, with Police and Community Corrections teaming up to deliver some Christmas cheer.
Staff are delivering food parcels, including toys and other Christmas goodies, to the homes of families in need around Palmerston North.
It’s hoped the initiative, dubbed Operation Blue Santa, will help ease the pressures this time of year can bring.
“On a daily basis, both Police and Community Corrections see the stresses that this time of the year can place on families, so we are doing a small bit to help out where we can,” says Inspector Dave White.
The items being delivered have been gathered from a variety of sources, including Police and Corrections staff, Methodist Social Services, members of the community and other organisations.
Police and Corrections staff are also using the opportunity to provide advice and contact information for these families should the pressures of Christmas become too overbearing.
“Our staff often come into contact with families in what are normally stressful crisis times during the year,” says Mr White. “It’s great to be able to go back to them and help them in a tangible way to have a less-stressful time and help them in a positive way.”
Keeping families safe is a priority for Police and Community Corrections and the visits are being well received.
“It’s a stressful time of year for many families of offenders, and we’re visiting some of them before Christmas to let them know we’re available if they need support,” says Belinda Bidois, Service Manager at Palmerston North Community Corrections.
“We’re taking a proactive approach with our families. This is more than managing offenders, it’s about making sure the offenders and their families know we’re here if they need us.
“The food baskets will help ease the financial pressure for these families. One offender’s mother was most grateful and totally overwhelmed when we visited."
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
