Children shop with Harley owners, Fraternal Order of Police
By Staff Reports
Published in News on December 11, 2010 11:20 PM
Santa Claus came early for nearly 30 children Saturday when they went shopping with members of the Fraternal Order of Police and the local chapter of the Harley Owners Group.
Both organizations raised money throughout the year in order to be able to carry on the annual tradition of helping needy youngsters have a happy holiday. On Saturday morning at Wal-Mart on U.S. 70 West, they got to see their efforts come to fruition.
"We just love helping the kids who are a little less fortunate than we are at Christmas," said Jimmy Brown, a member of the Harley Owners Group.
"We just love helping these kids," echoed Bobby Radford, vice president of the Fraternal Order of Police as both officers and bikers paired up with children and their parents to head for the children's section of the store.
The Harley owners were helping about two dozen children who had been recommended by Social Services and school officials in both Wayne and Johnston counties. The FOP members were assisting about a half dozen children, most recommended by Wayne County school officials.
The scene was lit by smiles on the faces of both the youngsters and the adults. Most of the bikers and law enforcement officers seemed to be having as much fun as the children.
"It's all about putting a smile on a child's face," said Kristy Walker, another Harley rider.
Members of both groups said that helping the children find clothing and accessories was the first order of business. After that, it was on to the toy department, where the smiles grew even bigger.
"You see their faces light up, it'll touch you," said Tommy Pike, a member of the Harley owners.