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Greensboro police spread holiday cheer by delivering gifts to families and seniors in need

During the holiday season, the Greensboro police department is busy—not just with 911 calls but also with giving back to the community in a very special way

by Marcel Francis

Dec 30, 2024

GREENSBORO, N.C. — During the holiday season, the Greensboro police department is busy—not just with 911 calls but also with giving back to the community in a very special way.

Officers usually out patrolling were wrapping presents Wednesday evening, which will soon be delivered to the Greensboro community.

It's their way of spreading the holiday cheer.

"We're very fortunate that we can do this, and we can give back to the community, and it's a blessing for all of us," said Greensboro Police Community Resource Officer Sam Alvarez.

 

Operation Yuletide is an initiative headed by the Greensboro police department to deliver holiday gifts to more than fifty families and two hundred senior citizens. The nominated recipients are people who have endured hardships over the past year. Officers hope to bring them some joy to help make the holidays a bit easier.

"We see so many things that families go through in life, and this is just a small way of us giving back, especially this time of year," said Alvarez.

Payton Goodykoontz, whose dad is on the force, appreciates what it means to serve and protect.

"It makes me feel really happy that I'm able to give these kids a Christmas that they deserve," said Goodykoontz.

The delivery of gifts to Greensboro community members will continue with two more drops on Thursday evening.