Police Lights of Christmas bring in big donations for area residents

By Brandi Makuski

PORTAGE COUNTY — Law enforcement agencies in central Wisconsin have raised nearly $10,000 for the 2024 Police Lights of Christmas fundraiser, surpassing the $9,000 collected in 2023.

The annual initiative enables police departments across the state to provide support to individuals and families in need during the holiday season, as well as residents “caught” doing good around the area.

The Police Lights of Christmas program, which began in northeast Wisconsin, now includes over 185 participating departments statewide. Officers distribute gift cards and essential items to people facing various challenges, such as vehicle breakdowns, homelessness, or financial hardships.

Plover Police Chief Ryan Fox explained how the funds are used to provide practical assistance.

“We give Kwik Trip or Visa gift cards to people whose cars break down and can’t afford a tow, or to families who need food or lodging,” he said. “We’ve also helped with items like car seats, clothing, and even tires.”

Lt. Joe Johnson of the Stevens Point Police Department noted the program’s broader impact.

“The goal is to give all the cards out before Christmas, whether to someone in need or as a positive gesture during a traffic stop,” he said. “It’s about spreading goodwill.”

Portage County Sheriff Mike Lukas highlighted the program’s growth and community involvement.

“In Portage County, officers from the Sheriff’s Office and police departments in Stevens Point and Plover brought home over $9,000 in gift cards plus donated care packages,” he said. “It’s an increase from 2021 when local agencies brought in $7,000 in donations.”

The Police Lights of Christmas initiative is supported by donations from local businesses, individuals, and organizations, coordinated by Q90 FM, a Christian radio station that has raised over $1.5 million for the program in its nine-year history.

At a recent distribution event in Green Bay, officers packed 6,500 gift bags containing donated items like socks, food cards, and personal care products. “It’s this incredible assembly line effort,” Johnson said. “The impact of these small gestures can be just enormous.”