With all the uncertainty in the country especially around the police force, it’s refreshing to read stories about our cops still going above and beyond to help the communities they serve.
Better to give than to receive
Atlanta Police Officer Veronica Campbell has lived her life dedicated to protecting and serving her community and knows about the needs of the youth there. Campbell helps out with a variety of yearly events for the younger members of society, including an annual toy drive. “That comes from within me,” said, “I believe it’s better to give than to receive.”
A recent act of kindness drew attention to her selfless heart when she gave selflessly to a needy family, the story was shared by The City of Atlanta Police Department where they recognized her giving spirit. “The generosity of Atlanta Police Athletic League Officer Campbell changed the life of a single mother and her five children by gifting them with a 2011 Dodge Nitro,” the post stated.
Act of kindness
“On September 29, 2020, officers with the Atlanta Police Department gathered at Bessie Branham Recreation Center to surprise a 29-year-old mother and three of her children with the car.” The young mother was a domestic violence survivor and had fled with her children to Atlanta, where she sold her car to pay to rent a place.
“Officer Campbell and the mother connected at the Atlanta Police Foundation’s At-Promise Center, with their support she has found stable housing and a new job,” the post continued.
“In recent weeks, she has used MARTA to make it to work and transport her kids. Officer Campbell saw the need to step up and provide the family with a reliable vehicle as they continue to improve their lives. The Atlanta Police Department is proud of Officer Campbell’s caring heart and efforts to bridge the gap between the police and the community.”
After she met the young mother and heard about her suffering, Campbell decided to do something for her. “I knew that this mother needed a new lease on life and she needed to know that the Atlanta Police Department had officers willing to make the sacrifice when they go out into the community,” Campbell said. “I had a vehicle and I just decided to give it to her and she would be able to put it to better use than me.”
Law Enforcement Hero Award
Earlier this week, Officer Campbell received the Law Enforcement Hero Award through the November 2020 National Law Enforcement Officer of the month program. “Officer Campbell has always made it her purpose to help others, it is in her DNA,” Deputy Chief Michael O’Connor said. “The Atlanta Police Department is proud of Officer Campbell’s caring heart and efforts to bridge the gap between the police and the community.”
“Officer Campbell was able to make a generous donation that will literally change the lives of one woman and her children,” added Marcia Ferranto, CEO of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, which praised Campbell’s “selfless act of compassion.”
“If each officer could make that kind of connection with just one individual in the community, imagine how strong the relationship between law enforcement and communities could be.”
