Pensacola Police Department surprises kids with Christmas party

PENSACOLA, Fla. (WALA) - The Pensacola Police Department hosted a Christmas party for more than 50 children and their families Friday, Dec. 21.

Chief Chip Simmons said his officers selected needy families that they've met throughout their careers; through churches and other organizations.

Each child was given numerous gifts that they told their parents they wanted this Christmas.

The gifts were handed out and opened at the Pensacola Police Headquarters.

“I'm surprised about everything that they put together,” said Dominique Harris, mother of three. “As a mother, you know, it makes me happy and satisfied as much as they are.”

Many of the children said the event caught them by surprise.

Chief Simmons said the event was made possible by the Kugelman Foundation, who provided the department with a grant to purchase the gifts.

Officers made sure to also buy these families necessities.

“We were able to find out what the needs were, what their wants were; and we tried to provide a little bit of both because sometimes the requests were that they needed clothes and some requested a toy. And in most cases we were able to provide exactly what they need,” said Chief Simmons.

This was the department’s fourth consecutive year hosting the event.

They are hoping to help even more kids next year.