Deer Park Students Show Appreciation for Law Enforcement

Deer Park, NY — Members of the newly-created Deer Park Jr. Community Association teamed up with parent organization Deer Park Community Association (DPCA) to create whimsical police officer "survival kits" last week. The kits, made up of candy items to symbolize the officer's work and commitments, were a way for the community to show support for the local police officers, says Gina Lieneck, president of the DPCA.

"We had so many families come out to help us. It was a great way to get community together," she told Patch.

"It’s a very sad time for our policer officers right now. Let’s show them how much we support and respect them," the event invite read. Members of the junior association were able to receive community service credits at the "Law Enforcement Appreciation Event," which was held on February 18th.

Lieneck helped form the junior association earlier this month.

"Our goal is to empower our students to make a difference in our community. We all want to raise children who are engaged with their communities, who help others in need, and who work to make the world a better place. Having our community children volunteer reinforces these values and helps our children develop empathy and compassion."

The group of 50 students made 200 kits —made up of candy like Lifesavers, to "remind you of the many times you've been one" and Starburst candies, "for the burst of energy that you need"—which they will present at the 1st Precinct's community meeting next week.