LAWRENCE — Christmas can be a tough time for police officers. They respond to calls of children's presents being stolen. They respond to domestic abuse cases and see a home without the hope of a holiday. They respond to calls for help and find poverty.
That's why in 1997 police Officer Ronald DeSantis started a toy drive within the department to help officers provide presents when they see a child in need. DeSantis retired several years later, but the tradition carries on today with the department's payroll director Annette Messina.
"Especially at this time of the year, it really makes an impact on (the officers) when they go into these situations," police Chief John Romero said. "To see kids in dire straits like that."
Again this holiday season, Messina collected either a new toy or a $20 bill from the 200 workers in the Police Department. Sgt. Sandy Picard helps her and they take no excuses from anyone.
"They're persistent. They'll give you the evil eye until you come across with the money," said Romero, noting their efforts are for a "great cause."
Then the shopping begins. Messina said she never pays full price for the toys but instead keeps a close eye on holiday sales. She ran out recently and grabbed an armful of MP3 players on sale at Toys"R"Us for $11 each.
She'll hit Walmart, Kmart and Target for games, electronics, Barbie dolls and more. Sometimes the families the Police Department is helping will provide Messina with a list of items the children want.
"Toys'R'Us has another sale today that runs until midnight. I'll be there," she said during an interview Wednesday.
Messina also collects business donations and for the third year in a row, she received cartons of toys courtesy of the New England Doll Co. in Lynnfield.
In a storage room in the Police Department's basement, Messina sorts and organizes the toys. While some toy deliveries are planned, Messina tries to hold on to gifts that can be given in an emergency around Christmas and even later in the year if necessary.
A Lawrence native, Messina just smiles when asked why she's so involved in the toy drive.
"It's her personality," said Romero. "She is someone who cares and looks out for everybody."
To make a donation to the Police Department's toy drive, call Messina at 978-794-5900, ext. 610.
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