By Chief Fred Maas

I am not sure any of them quite expected what they got in return for their good deeds.  But I am sure that what they did get and witnessed, they will NEVER forget.

Each year the Sunny Isles Beach Police Department conducts a “toy drive” for the needy and less than privileged.  We are able to do this thru the generosity of residents, business owners and benevolent persons who have a goodness inside them that helps us accomplish our goal…. to put a gift in the hand and a smile on the face of an otherwise forgotten or disappointed child during the Christmas Holidays.

This year due to the economy and state of affairs for so many, we did not aggressively pursue our campaign but rather relied on those who could give, would give.  We asked no one for fear of putting an unnecessary pressure or hardship on anyone.  Still, people came thru.  Our requests for assistance were up as everyone seemed in the same boat this year.  And due to the kindness and generosity of some, we were able to accomplish our goal.

We had some unexpected help however this year which was a pleasant surprise.  A couple of moms and a school teacher from our new community school got involved with program coordinator Police Corporal Melissa Montesino and really saw first hand the joys and rewards of everyone’s efforts.

Jessica Zirulnikoff, Leslie Golan and Miriam Bendfeldt assisted in securing toys from benevolent vendors and businesses, spent countless hours sorting and wrapping hundreds of gifts for all ages and participated in that special event, the giveaway by Santa to the youngsters just before Christmas Day.

This is when the fruits of their labor and effort really hit home.  They all joined us on Tuesday, December 23, when so many boys and girls of all ages showed up to have “their time” with Santa and friends.

These three moms were moved to tears as they saw firsthand the efforts of the program.  To see joy on a little one’s face as they are handed that gift that says so much to a child, is worth every minute of their time, they said.  I think we enjoyed seeing their reaction and sentiments as much as we did those of the children.  It was truly a beautiful moving event.

As is our custom, The City Commissioners attended and each handed out toys to the kids.  A special surprise visit by none other than Santa Claus who passed out gifts and posed for photos added to the kids excitement.

We are indebted to those who sacrificed to help us, help them.  We are grateful to our volunteers.  We are astounded by the continued generosity of repeat benefactors, even in these challenging times, who did not forget the program or the kids who may not have had much to open, had it not been for them.  To all of you and each of you, Melissa and I say “Thank You, God Bless and Reward You and Merry Christmas….”