Police officers do more than write traffic tickets and make arrests. In fact, officers at the Linton Police Department are stepping up to bridge the gap of those in need through a newly-formed Emergency Supply Program.

“This is an officer-led initiative. The officers themselves have taken the initiative to set this up and organize it,” said Linton Police Department Chief Paul Clark. “We have some officers who were going to places where the kids didn’t have all of their needs met.”

While there are many resources available in the community, such as Blessing Boxes, and churches, Clark said, they’re not always available when a crisis arises.

“Sometimes people are in a state of crisis where they will accept help because their pride is already gone or they are in a state where communication is possible,” Clark said. 

The goal of the Emergency Supply Program is to have multiple items ranging from diapers and canned goods to clothing and blankets to other non-perishable items that can be easily stored. They will also accept toys and items animals may need. In addition, they will accept monetary donations to purchase needed items.

In May, staff members at Linton-Stockton Elementary held their inaugural community fundraiser and raised $720 for the program. 

When the officers brought the idea to Clark, he was happy to support it. 

“One of the principles I believe in is we can’t do what we do without the support of the community,” Clark said. “We need the entire community to have a successful police department.” 

Throughout Clark’s 20 plus year tenure with the department with the last five serving as chief, he said the Linton community has been supportive of its police department. 

“When you see officers engaging in the communities and the communities engaging with the officers, you know you are building that relationship,” he said. “I am confident because of that relationship that when we have a need, we can count on the community to fulfill that need. They have proved that time and time again. No matter what our need is, they have always risen to show their support. It is one example of why it is an honor to work and serve this community.”

The police department will have a booth set up at National Night Out on Aug. 6 to accept donations for the Emergency Supply Program. National Night Out will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Humphreys Park.