Local sheriff's Office partners with county schools to help children in need this Christmas

The Miller County Sheriff's Office is helping some families in the community this holiday season.

"We reached out to the Genoa and Fouke School districts and explained the Sheriff's Office wanted to help children in their districts whose parents might need just a little help this year," Lt. Kathy Hillis said.

The department began "No Shave November" on Nov. 1 with 26 people raising funds for the Deputies and Kids Program for Christmas.

Participants are Sheriff Jackie Runion, 21 deputies, one administration detention staff and three citizens. Fouke Mayor Terry Purvis, Mark Luckett of J. E. Bonding and Nelson Bui of Thomas Bui and Sons Heating and Air are the citizens, Hillis said.

The department is also doing a raffle with the donation of a gun and ammunition from Paul's Pawn and Gun.

"We then began extending our mission by asking for toys, shoes, clothes and other necessities by placing donation boxes in local flea markets. We placed donation boxes at local flea markets for multiple reasons: to encourage the community to help support the vendors and to search for Miller County history memorabilia and treasures," Hillis said.

For the school project, Hillis said parents know best what their children want and need. The parents provide the Sheriff's Office with lists.

The parents will also get the honor of playing Santa for the children.

"We don't want the credit," Hillis said. "The parents get to be Santa. It's hard enough for them to ask for help."

Donations can be made or dropped off at the Miller County Sheriff's Office at 2300 East St. Texarkana, Arkansas.

Donations can also be picked up by a deputy. To arrange to pick up a donation, call Hillis at 870-774-3001 Ext 107.

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