Day Care pays it forward
by Judy Williams
What to do with the $25 prize money from the snow creature contest? This was the dilemma faced by five daycare kids. Sarah Williams, daycare owner suggested several options to the young contest winners. Should we split the money five ways? Buy some more toys and supplies for the daycare? Pay it forward?
Paying it forward required extensive explanation.
“April is child abuse prevention month,” Williams stated. “The money could be donated to a local group that helps less fortunate children.” Williams explained the options to 6-year-old Emma, leader of the group younger children, and 4-year-old Jackson, the second in command in the daycare hierarchy.
“Shop with a Cop would be an excellent way to help kids in the community,” Williams mentioned to her young charges. The gang of 1- to 6-year-olds enthusiastically agreed. The Stockbridge Police Chief should be contacted and the money donated to Shop with a Cop. The children’s one disappointment was not being able to take the less fortunate kids shopping themselves.
Precocious Emma explained, “The money is to help kids that would have a bad Christmas. Now they can go shopping with a police officer and get presents.”
A smiling Jackson was quick to add “We are giving the money to the police officer so they can help other kids have a good Christmas.”
Wednesday, April 7, Chief Torres made a grand entrance, arriving at the daycare in the police car with the lights flashing and a fast blast of the siren. He was greeted by the group of kids eager to hand over the prize money along with a generous donation from the daycare.
“Thank you for thinking of the police department and the Shop with a Cop project,” a grinning Chief Torres said as he received the donation from Emma. Torres rewarded the generosity of the kids with badge stickers.
Both the Village of Stockbridge and the Unadilla Township Police participate in the Shop with a Cop program and welcome donations. Those who wish to donate may contact the departments for more information.
Child abuse and neglect statistics from the American Society for the Positive Care of Children report 7.9 million children were abused in 2019. The annual estimate is 1,840 children died from abuse and neglect.
Saying goodbye to Chief Torres. L to Rt, Maddy, Emmerson, Liam, Emma, Jackson, Madison, Chief Torres.
Checking out the police car.
Emmerson wants to help pass off the donation. L to Rt, Emma, Chief Torres, Emmerson.
Emma hands over donation to Chief Torres.
Kids receiving their sticker badges from Chief Torres.
Showing off their badges. Back Row: Chief Torres, helper Fran Middle Row: Emmerson, Jackson, Emma, Madison, Front Row: Liam, Maddy.
