Adopt a kid for Christmas program underway

By Trey Youngdahl

Every year around Christmas, the Polk County Sheriff’s Department runs their community outreach program where they sponsor children and families in need. 

The program, aptly titled “Adopt a Kid for Christmas,” works by having local school districts nominate underprivileged children and families. These adopted families will receive toys, clothes and food, depending on their needs. 

This program is wholly funded by donations made by Polk County citizens. All of the money is used directly for the aid of the elected families. 

Last year, the Department was able to sponsor 27 children, and received enough donations to spend around $300 per child. 

“We’ve done this for the last few years, and it’s gotten bigger every year,” Polk County Sheriff Scott Sawyer said. “My goal this year is to have each school district nominate two families. I think we’ll have enough donations to make that happen.”

Sheriff Scott Sawyer took time to publicly share his appreciation and acknowledge the support from The Christian Motorcyclists Association, The Rich Mountain Train, The Bug Guys, Jason Barrett, Lisa Keeling, Chris Daniel, Dana Brown, Carole Martin, Sam Snead, Chip and Suzanne Bentley, Bobby and Kim Peek, Larry and Linda Dunaway, Aleshire Electric, United Country Properties Don and Kristina Davis, and Dallas Masonic Lodge #128. 

This growing list comprises all of the donors publicly acknowledged at press time. For updates, visit Sawyer’s Facebook page. 

If interested in making a donation, you can visit the Tax Office or the Polk County Sheriff’s Office at 507 Church Ave. in Mena. You can also call the Polk County Sheriff’s Office at 479-394-2511, or contact Sawyer through his social media.

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