Officers bring Christmas to area's less fortunate

By Katie Stallcup (Contact) | The Natchez Democrat

Published Wednesday, December 5, 2007

Editor’s note: This is part of a series of stories highlighting non-profit agencies that need help or donations during the holiday season.

NATCHEZ — Catherine Latham spends most of her time surrounded by records. But once a year, she and other police volunteers are surrounded by tiny, smiling faces.

Each year, the Fraternal Order of Police organizes Santa Cop. Officers and volunteers take less fortunate children to breakfast and then take them shopping.

“I love it,” Latham said. “I started (at the Natchez Police Department) in 1999, and I’ve been doing it ever since.”

Taking a child shopping for basic necessities and a special toy is one of the highlights of her year, Latham said.

“I just like helping the kids, seeing the joy they have on their faces when they get to go shopping and pick new clothes and toys,” she said. “They want to thank you for every item they get. They’re grateful. You can tell by their expressions they’re grateful.”

And even though she loves shopping with the children, her favorite part comes afterward.

The night before the shopping day, police department employees and volunteers buy and box food for the children’s families.

“My favorite part is to do the grocery shopping and to deliver the boxes, because the food is not just for the kids,” Latham said. “That’s something we give to the whole family. We provide a full meal for Christmas, and that’s something the whole family can enjoy.”

But the event gives more to the children than the needed warm coats and food. It gives them a warm feeling, she said.

“I think it’s important for kids to know there are people out there who care about them and are concerned for their wellbeing,” Latham said. “All of them are needy kids. To see the smile on all of them just keeps me coming back every year.”