EATON — It’s almost that time again. Christmas and gift-giving will soon be at the top of many to-do lists. For some, however, this is a particularly difficult time of year. For others, it is a chance to help families in need.

On Tuesday, Dec. 13, the Fraternal Order of Police, Floyd E. Spitler Lodge #158 will be hosting its annual Cops & Kids event. With a little help from everyone, FOP President Brad Moore said the group can assist families that have fallen upon hard times and brighten their holiday season.

The Cops & Kids event helps families from all over the Preble County community. On the day of the event, the families will meet for dinner and receive a visit from Santa Claus, according to Moore. The selected families will then go shopping with FOP members for all the necessities: jackets, clothes, shoes, socks and any other clothing items of which they are in dire need.

“With any remaining funds, they may purchase gifts for their family,” Moore said.

“The families which are chosen are outstanding citizens who have found themselves fallen on hard times, but pull together to make ends meet,” Moore added. “All the gifts purchased during our event are made possible by the members of the FOP and donations from citizens and businesses throughout Preble County. Over the last six years, we have helped over 100 children throughout the county have a merry Christmas..

“One hundred percent of the donations go to that night’s event, which in turn determines how many children and their families we can help that year,” Moore said. “We appreciate all of the support and contributions we have received over the years.”

Anyone interested in donating to this life-changing event, can make donations to Cops & Kids, P.O. Box 602, Eaton, OH 45320.