Larimer County’s ‘Santa Cops’ forced to dissolve
Colorado families in need will have to look elsewhere for Christmas gifts this year following the dissolution of Santa Cops of Larimer County.
This beloved nonprofit, made up of local law enforcement, had been serving the community for 35 years by collecting donations and distributing gifts to thousands of children in need during the holiday season. However, a lack of a permanent location and the sale of its previous location at The Outlets forced the organization to make the difficult decision to dissolve.
Despite the disappointment of not being able to physically carry out their mission, the Santa Cops team found solace in being able to donate their remaining assets to other nonprofits in Larimer County that serve children.
Over 40 organizations and 52 foster families were among the recipients of these donations, showcasing the impact Santa Cops had on the community over the years.
For Assistant Chief Kristy Volesky, the heartwarming moments came when employees of these organizations shared that they themselves had received help from Santa Cops in their youth, truly embodying the nonprofit's mission to build relationships between law enforcement and children in need. "It's sad to see it go, but there is solace in knowing we provided a great service to our community," Volesky shared.
The annual Shop with a Cop events, which are not affiliated with Santa Cops but also involve local law enforcement, will continue to bring joy to children in need this holiday season.
Instead of having gifts delivered to their homes, children will have the opportunity to go shopping with a police officer to buy gifts for their family and for themselves.
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While the dissolution of Santa Cops may be a disappointment for many families in Larimer County, it is heartwarming to see the impact this organization had on the community and the relationships it built between law enforcement and children in need.
The legacy of Santa Cops will continue to live on through the selfless acts of the Santa Cops team and the many organizations and families they have touched throughout the years.
For those interested in supporting local nonprofits, many are asking for donations ahead of Colorado Gives Day on Dec. 5. For more information on how to donate, visit coloradogives.org.