In a heartwarming display of community spirit and compassion, the Montville Police Benevolent Association (PBA) recently held a successful fundraiser to support a local child bravely battling leukemia. The event brought together residents, law enforcement officers, local businesses, and volunteers in a unified effort to make a difference in the lives of a young child and their families during a challenging time.
The Story Behind the Fundraiser
Leukemia, a type of cancer affecting blood and bone marrow, has a profound impact on families, emotionally and financially. For the Smith family of Montville, their journey began when their six-year-old daughter, Emily, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) earlier this year. The diagnosis was devastating, and the family faced months of intensive treatments, hospital visits, and the emotional strain of watching their child endure such a difficult battle.
Recognizing the Smith family’s need for support, the Montville Police PBA decided to take action. Known for its commitment to serving not just in law enforcement but also within the community, the PBA launched plans for a fundraiser to help alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with Emily’s treatment.
Organizing the Event
The idea for the fundraiser came during a PBA meeting, where officers discussed ways to give back to the community. Officer Mike Henderson, a longtime advocate for charitable causes, spearheaded the initiative. “We’ve always been about more than just policing,” said Officer Henderson. “We’re here to support our community, and when we heard about Emily’s story, we knew we had to step in.”
Planning began months in advance, with officers coordinating efforts to secure a venue, organize activities, and gather donations. The Montville Community Center graciously offered its space for the event, and local businesses were quick to contribute, donating food, auction items, and sponsorship funds. Volunteers from across the town signed up to assist with setup, logistics, and entertainment.
A Day Filled with Hope and Support
On a sunny Saturday afternoon, the fundraiser kicked off with an outpouring of support from Montville residents and beyond. The event featured a wide range of activities designed to bring the community together while raising funds for Emily’s treatment.
The day included:
- Family-Friendly Activities: Bounce houses, face painting, and games for children created a lively and joyful atmosphere, reminding attendees of the importance of celebrating life even during difficult times.
- Raffles and Auctions: Local businesses and individuals donated an array of prizes, including gift cards, sports memorabilia, and a weekend getaway package. The live auction, hosted by local radio personality Lisa Green, was a highlight of the day, with spirited bidding that generated significant contributions.
- Food and Refreshments: A variety of food trucks and stalls offered everything from classic barbecue to vegetarian options, ensuring there was something for everyone. Many vendors pledged a portion of their proceeds to the cause, further boosting the fundraising total.
- Live Entertainment: The event featured performances by local bands, dance troupes, and even a surprise appearance by a popular regional singer. These performances kept the energy high and drew larger crowds throughout the day.
- Meet-and-Greet with Officers: A “Cops and Kids” station allowed children to interact with Montville police officers, learn about their work, and even sit in a patrol car. This activity not only added a unique touch but also strengthened the bond between law enforcement and the community.
A Record-Breaking Success
By the end of the day, the Montville Police PBA fundraiser had exceeded all expectations. Initial projections estimated a modest goal of $20,000, but thanks to the overwhelming generosity of attendees and sponsors, the event raised over $50,000. The funds will be used to cover medical expenses, travel costs for treatments, and other needs for Emily and her family.
“We’re blown away by the support we’ve received,” said Officer Henderson during his closing remarks. “This is what community is all about—coming together to lift each other.”
Emily’s parents, Sarah and Tom Smith were visibly moved by the turnout. “We cannot thank the Montville Police PBA and the entire community enough,” said Sarah. “The love and support we’ve felt today give us strength to keep going. Emily has a long road ahead, but knowing we’re not alone makes all the difference.”
The Ripple Effect of Kindness
The success of the Montville Police PBA fundraiser is a testament to the power of collective action. Events like this not only provide financial support but also create a ripple effect of kindness and solidarity. Attendees left the event inspired, with many expressing a renewed commitment to helping others in need.
Local businesses that participated in the fundraiser reported an increase in community engagement, with several pledging to continue supporting charitable causes in the future. “It’s amazing to see how one event can bring so many people together for a common goal,” said Linda Tran, owner of a Montville bakery that donated proceeds from the day. “We’re proud to be part of such a caring community.”
Continuing the Fight Against Leukemia
While the fundraiser was a significant milestone, Emily’s journey is far from over. The Montville Police PBA has vowed to continue supporting the Smith family in any way possible. Plans for future events, such as a charity run and a holiday toy drive, are already in the works.
Additionally, the PBA hopes to raise awareness about leukemia and encourage more people to become bone marrow donors. “Every person who signs up as a donor or contributes to research brings us one step closer to beating this disease,” said Officer Henderson.
A Call to Action
The success of the Montville Police PBA fundraiser underscores the importance of community involvement in times of crisis. For those inspired by Emily’s story, there are many ways to help. Consider donating to organizations supporting children with leukemia, volunteering for local events, or simply spreading awareness about the disease.
As Emily’s story unfolds, the love and support she’s received from her community will undoubtedly remain a source of strength and hope. The Montville Police PBA has set an example of what it means to truly serve and protect—not just in uniform, but as compassionate community members committed to making a difference.