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Garrett Smith helped organize the Andy Chan Holiday Pub Tour, which takes place Thursday along Second Street in Old City. The evening raises funds for Andy Chan, a 24-year veteran of the Philadelphia Police Department who was critically injured on the job in January.
Chan, a highway patrolman, suffered a severe brain injury after an elderly driver accidentally hit him on his motorcycle, throwing him 25 feet from his bike.
“For the last 11 months, he's been struggling, and his family has too. So, we're recognizing that need,” Smith said.
Chan remains in rehab.
The pub tour fundraiser is already generating lots of support from area law enforcement.
“This year because of the popularity of it all and everyone stepping up to help Andy out, (the pub tour is) encompassing now six restaurants and bars on the 200 block between Chestnut and Market streets,” Smith added.
As a veteran officer, Chan was there for many of Philadelphia’s misfortunes. In September 2015, he was on duty the night of the Amtrak 188 derailment and was among the first on the scene. He made his way into the heavily-damaged rear passenger car to rescue victims from the disaster.
Now, Smith says it's time for his brothers and sisters to step up to help him.
Proceeds from the event — which is strictly open to those who are associated with federal, state and local law enforcement in Philadelphia — will go directly to the Families Behind the Badge Children's Foundation.
“(It’s) a charity that's been in existence here in Philadelphia for 32 years,” Smith explained. “They raise money for law enforcement, injured families, fallen families, and they're going to help Andy Chan out.”
Smith said donations from the public are also being accepted on the organization’s website.