“No Shave November” is in full swing right now and the Bryant Police Department & Bryant FOP are getting in on it. They want to raise money for the annual “Santas with Badges” program that helps children in our community to have a better Christmas.
Each December since 2013, Bryant officers have taken selected Bryant children shopping at the Bryant Walmart so they can buy Christmas gifts.
“We get several generous donations for this cause, and we have received some already for this year,” stated Sgt. Todd Crowson. “However, we wanted to add a little fun this year for the citizens to assist us in raising money.”
Normally, growing a beard is against Department policy, but they are allowing officers to do so, in order to raise money for this program. The only stipulation is that the beards must be kept neat and groomed.
“If an Officer wants to grow a beard, he must donate to the Bryant FOP $25 for each month he has the beard,” said Crowson. “He must also have a sponsor that will either match his $25 for each month as well or they can give more if they so desire.”
The average cost for a child shopping in this event is $150, so it’s a way for every officer to sponsor a child.
This program will go into January as well. Any donations made after Christmas will roll over to next year’s “Santas with Badges” event.
“Now this is something new for us and so obviously it’s a trial run,” said Crowson, “but were hoping that it will be a way to get the community and businesses more involved in raising money for a good cause.”
The Department wants to get the word out early about why officers will have beards, and so the public can participate by sponsoring an officer or just making a donation.
To help out or ask questions, contact Sgt. Todd Crowson with the Bryant Police Department.