Tampa Republic

On December 17, 2023, Tampa Police hosted “Santa’s Workshop,” which benefitted local children in need this holiday season.

Children and their families got to visit the workshop at Middleton High School, where they had the opportunity to handpick several toys and even partake in holiday activities.

Thanks to generous donations from the community and local businesses, more than 3,000 toys and 95 bikes were collected, which allowed approximately 1,800 children to benefit from Santa’s Workshop this year.

“The holidays are difficult for many, especially for those who cannot financially afford to purchase toys for their children,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “It is because of the community’s generous donations and our officers ability to successfully assess the needs in their communities, that we were able to make some magic and ensure our city’s youngest residents can celebrate the holiday season.”

A special thank you to the following organizations and companies for their significant donations this year: First Responders Children’s Network (donated toys), Kids Wish Network (donated toys), Walmart (donated toys), Shlomo Subs of Palm Harbor (donated bikes).

We’d also like to thank all the members in the community who answered our call and donated toys during our “Cram the Cruiser” events.

“Without the significant contributions of the community, we wouldn’t have been able to help as many children as we did,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “It’s an honor to serve the department in a city that cares about its community members and neighbors.”

Original source can be found here.