The department will be hosting its second Police and Community Empowerment Back to School Bash at the old fairgrounds off Highway 301 on August 20 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
“The kids who come there will get free school supplies,” said Administrative Service Officer Derrick McGee.
There will also be hot dogs, hamburgers as well as some 300 pizza slices from Little Caesar's, along with ice cream, snack cakes and other food.
There will be characters and the Elk's Lodge will bring its character, Elroy Elk, to pass out drug awareness information.
“This is a benefit to families,” said Ayona Cooper, who works at the police department as an administrative assistant. “With the economy, it will take some of the burden of their shoulders.”
Enfield Police Lieutenant James Williams said it is part of the police department's charge to look after the academic well being of the children and helps to make them see police aren't only there to arrest people in the community. “It strengthens our relationship with the community. Starting off at an early age it helps them grow up with a positive image of the police department.”
Last year's event drew 3,500 children, Chief Eddie Buffaloe said. “It's something the police department has engaged in to give back to the children.”
A large number of community and corporate sponsors, such as Safelight and KapStone are helping with the initiative, the chief said, an event he says is not just for Enfield children, but those throughout the county.
The children will receive paper, pencils, folders and markers. There will be book bags available and Olive Garden and Texas Steakhouse have combined to offer a total of 300 meals. “In these economic times, people should stand up for the children. That's what it's all about.”
For more information call the police department at 252-445-5122.
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