Thanksgiving Baskets

MPD Supports Goodman Community Center's Efforts

After realizing a record number of families had registered for Thanksgiving baskets, staff at the Goodman Community Center reached out to the Madison Police Department with hopes that officers and civilian employees might help raise additional funds. "The MPD asked each employee to give $1 and 1 food item," said Sgt. Lori Chalecki, who helped spearhead the 11th hour MPD drive. "The department, working in concert with 911 communicators, surpassed that goal," said Sgt. Chalecki, as $561 and 522 food items were donated. She noted each basket costs about $60 to put together. Sgt. Chalecki notes that the Goodman Community Center is the only place in Dane County that puts together Thanksgiving baskets for those in need. "Families could register for a basket on a first-come, first-served basis, although families with children get moved ahead of those with just adults," according to Sgt. Chalecki. She said the Goodman Community Center initially had enough food to provide baskets to 1500 of 2300 registered families. "That is when they reached out to the community and to the police department," Sgt. Chalecki explained. She said 2300 baskets works out to over 11,000 people with 5100 of them being children. "We are thankful to have such a great community partner in the Goodman Community Center, and we are proud and happy to help their staff make this a bountiful holiday for so many good families," said Sgt. Chalecki. More information can be found on the Goodman Community Center's website: http://www.goodmancenter.org/events/event-thanksgiving-baskets

Links