Law enforcement officers are in an incredibly tough position – serving their communities every day, often putting their lives on the line, but seldom receiving  the appreciation they deserve.  The MOMS Club of Merced, CA, decided that it was high time to give thanks to the law enforcement officers (LEOs) in their community.   In March, the chapter launched a project called LEO Love, to deliver goodie bags and handwritten thank-you notes to three local law enforcement agencies:  Merced County Sheriff’s Office, Merced Police Department and U.C. Merced Police Department. 

The chapter was motivated to counter-act some of the negative messages that appear in media about the law enforcement community, and wanted to make sure that their kids felt comfortable and safe around the officers.  According to the chapter president, Cindy Thomas, the chapter was able to combine three separate events into one:  “We had our craft group make and decorate our goodie bags, our service project was to donate individually wrapped goodies to stuff the bags with, and we had a field trip to deliver the bags.”

The chapter made special baskets for the family of Lucas Hukill, a deputy who had died the previous month from a rare form of cancer.

While the focus was on saying thanks to the law enforcement officers, the chapter got a treat back from the officers.  The Sheriff’s office brought out their SWAT vehicle and patrol car for the kids to see (they even got to turn on the lights and the siren!)   They also gave each child a stuffed animal, bracelet, pencils and other goodies.   The kids had a great time, and the officers certainly appreciated the gesture from the chapter.

The event was even featured on the local news — what a great event!