Two local organizations are working together to benefit a Texarkana, Ark., Police Detective in need.
Pink Behind the Thin Blue Line is teaming up with Friends For a Cause Foundation to help offset costs for Detective Holly Smith while she undergoes cancer treatments. A crawfish boil will be held Saturday at Hopkins Icehouse.
Smith, a 15-year veteran with Texarkana, Ark., Police Department, was recently diagnosed with a brain tumor. She has had recent surgeries in Little Rock and is beginning several weeks of radiation and chemotherapy which will require extended stays in Little Rock.
Holly's husband, Billy Smith is also a TAPD officer.
"Anytime we can partner with another organization, it is a positive thing. It doubles the amount of people we can reach," said Chasity Russell, a member of "Pink Behind the Thin Blue Line."
Pink Behind the Thin Blue Line is a local non profit law enforcement support group comprised of officer's families and community members who support local police officers.
"We help the officers and their families whether it's general or financial needs and obviously health concerns are a big need" Russell said.
Friends for a Cause Foundation raises money for cancer patients of any type to help offset costs insurance does not cover.
A portion of the proceeds from Saturday's crawfish boil at Hopkins Icehouse downtown location will benefit the Smith family. The event is 5 p.m. Saturday Tickets are $30 for the crawfish boil. Tickets are only $10 if guests want to pass on the crawfish and just listen to local band Jawbone perform.
"The proceeds will go for whatever the Smith's need to spend the money on," Russell said.
For tickets, call or text 903-319-4752.
TAPD Officer James Atchley also coordinated a gun raffle which has raised about $16,000 for the Smiths, Russell said.
TAPD Chief Robert Harrison is asking the community support Smith and her family during the difficult time.
"Our hearts are heavy, yet our faith is strong as Holly continues on this journey. We ask for continued prayers and support of the Smiths as they move forward," Harrison said.
Anyone wanting to donate can send a check to Pink Behind the Thin Blue Line at P.O. Box 185 Nash, TX 75569 and write "for Holly Smith" on it. Or call 903-319-4752.