The Becker Defenders non-profit organization is hosting a "Pack the Ambulance" Christmas donation event for families at the Becker Baptist Church on Hancock Street, Sat., Nov. 19 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

 

 The goal is to pack an entire CentraCare Emergency Services Ambulance with toys to give as gifts to families in need - and with donations of food to help local families enjoy the holidays.

 

 Members and volunteers of Becker Defenders will be giving away free coffee, hot chocolate, and a gift package to all who donate.

 

Becker Defenders is a non-profit organization that was established in April of 2013 by police officers and staff in an effort to bring the police men and women and community closer together.

 

The organization feels it is important to seek the assistance of local business to keep the local economy growing.

 

Defenders donations (outside of Pack the Ambulance), will be used to sponsor children wishing to play sports but cannot afford to purchase the equipment needed to play.  They will also be helping children who want to play an instrument, but cannot afford to purchase one.  This will give the officers and the children an opportunity to meet and be more involved.

 

Defenders will also be supporting the Becker Police Dept. Reserve Officer program.  The reserve officer program is made up of volunteers who assist the police department with their daily routines.

 

 Some of the reserve officers are college students wishing to help the community and are not paid for their time.  Defenders can assist the reserve officers with the purchasing of equipment needed to assist with making Becker a better community.

 

Defenders is a non-profit organization and all donations are tax deductible.  All donations can be made at the Starcor Credit Union located at 14267 Bank St. in Becker. 

 

 Officer Jonathan Batterberry is president of the organization, June Hubbard is secretary and David Rydberg is treasurer.