ITA SENDS FOOD BASKETS ACROSS THE STATE
On Wednesday, November 15th, the Indiana Troopers Association shared the blessings they have received over the years with 92 families – one in every Indiana County – by shipping food baskets. The 4th Annual Thanksgiving Food Basket Program, complimented by an Open House at the Corporate Office, provided a hearty meal for each family of 4-6, scheduled to arrive just in time for Thanksgiving dinner.
The baskets valued at approximately $100 each, were prepared by Curtis Orchards near Angola, and included all the needed ingredients to provide Thanksgiving dinner. Families were provided by contacts with elementary schools across the state. The criterion used by the schools was a family who is struggling with excessive medical bills, death or serious illness in the family, or loss of a job or a home. Also, included in the selection process were single or foster parenthood, or grandparents who are providing total support for their elementary-aged grandchildren.
United Parcel Service of Waterloo provided shipping services for the baskets, and driver, Shane Dean a 5-year veteran of UPS, arrived at 3pm to pick up the baskets. Area law enforcement officers also came out to assist with the project, including Steuben County officers, ITA members and other Indiana State Police officers.
Throughout the afternoon, a special guest, Trooper Reddy delighted young and old alike by passing out candy, Junior Trooper badges and other gifts to those in attendance.
The food baskets were scheduled to arrive 2-3 days prior to the Thanksgiving holiday, just in time for families to prepared their special holiday dinner. Our thanks go out to all who assisted in this annual project.