by KIM HILSENBECK
If you saw Kyle Police Department officers out on the streets recently filling the hat, they were not collecting money for the department. They are members of the Kyle Police Employee Association (KPEA), a nonprofit police group that does community outreach and other benevolent work.
The organization’s current project is Blue Santa, which allows police to collect donations for bikes and other toys to give to children in need during the holidays. Officer Briana Brecher coordinates the program for the organization.
Sgt. Tracy Vrana said last year the KPEA provided bikes and toys for 65 Kyle area families. He expects to help even more this year.
“We really want to thank area residents for digging in their ashtrays and pockets,” Vrana said. “Many even gave even larger donations. It was humbling to have so many people donate to Blue Santa.”
Vrana said the organization also was able to provide 20 full Thanksgiving meals to local families this year because of the generosity of Kyle PD employees. He said that was up from 15 meals last year.
“The first Citizens Police Academy class alumni played a big part in the success of our Thanksgiving project,” Vrana said.
The KPEA will have one more fill-the-hat opportunity before Christmas. Donations can also be given directly to the KPEA.
