Philadelphia Police Officers Play Santa For The Day
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- It's a giving back bash! Philadelphia Police officers are giving Christmas gifts to children who may not otherwise receive one.
This afternoon, Philadelphia Police's 2nd and 15th Districts threw their annual holiday party to provide gifts to about 125 children in surrounding neighborhoods.
The event was held at the Philadelphia Protestant Home.
Officials with the 2nd District tell Eyewitness News local businesses donated money that was used to buy gifts.
The two districts invited third and fourth graders from more than 30 elementary schools to take part.
"I got a picture with Santa and I got a present and I had fun with my friends," said Tacony Academy 4th grader Zakiya Walls.
"It's just nice to put the police officers in a positive light and see the kids can- they're like trusted adults," said St. Matthew School Parent Moira Murphy.
The event included lunch, a magic show, music , dancing and photos with Santa.
Officer Mark Mroz with the 2nd district said the event is a tradition for the two districts, adding, "A lot of us police officers, we see very difficult things and to see things like this today with the children, it's just unbelievable and we love doing it."
