Pleasanton Police Holiday Gift Program Has Started; Donations Needed

Bay City News

This holiday season, Pleasanton police will adopt 13 families in need and 20 seniors through the Giving Tree Program; these people will receive holiday gifts from the Pleasanton community.

"All applicants for the drive have been selected for the 2011 holiday season," said dispatcher Betsy Jones on Tuesday.

"Many more called," Jones said, expressing sorrow for the families who were not selected, yet continue to call the station in need.

The annual drive, organized by the Pleasanton Police Officers Association Charitable Foundation will help 13 out of the 30 families that filled out applications for the program and 20 seniors in need of special care over the holidays.

For each child, shoes and warm jackets are the top priority. Once those necessities have been secured, clothing and gift cards will be distributed, Jones said.

Workers at the Senior Support Program of the Tri-Valley recommended senior citizens for the Giving Tree Program whom they felt could use specific gifts.

Jones mentioned that one elderly woman needed a vacuum cleaner, while others needed everyday items such as mouthwash and hand lotion. Most of the elderly involved in the program requested bathrobes and slippers, Jones said.

All seniors will also receive a $50 food gift card redeemable at a nearby grocery store, Jones said.

The Pleasanton Police Department encourages citizens interested in adopting a family and donating presents to come to the police station to pick up gift tags printed with the exact sizes for clothing and shoes. Wrapped gifts will be collected at the police station, 4833 Bernal Ave., until Dec. 16.

Pleasanton police, employees and volunteers plan to deliver the presents on Dec. 19 to gift recipients, Jones said.