Kansas City, MO - Santa is not the only one handing out gifts this holiday season. So are those who serve and protect.
One driver saw the flashing red and blue lights behind her and thought she was going to get a ticket after speeding along a busy street in Shawnee, KS Thursday.
“I am just going to give you a warning,” said Officer Stephanie Saylor with the Shawnee police department.
Along with the warning, Saylor gave her a $100 with a special note saying the money came from an anonymous person and is part of the department’s Secret Santa program.
The program was started a few years ago. An anonymous donor gives the department $10,000 to hand out to those who are helping their community or are in need. In all cases, it is just random acts of kindness. As for who this Secret Santa is, only the chief of police knows.
“I can’t believe it!” said the driver. “But there is someone who needs it more, so please give it to them!”
Saylor says she can not do that, so the woman is promising to pay it forward.
“This is the first time that has ever happened to me,” exclaimed Saylor.
Saylor also talked about her most special memory a year ago, when she helped out a family living in their car and almost got in trouble for selling personal possession just so they could eat and have a place to stay. Saylor gave them money and helped them find a new home.
“Policing is just more than responding to crimes. We are also here to help the community,” added Saylor.
The officers will hand out the $100 bills until the cash runs out.