Quebec Provincial Police (QPP) spread Christmas cheer in Potton
As a fresh, bright and promising New Year fast approaches, we look back on the year and its highlights. We also reflect on the Christmas just past with a reminder of the human spirit and its continuous giving and inspiring of hope, joy and love.
Just before Christmas Quebec Provincial Police (QPP) officers, David Blanchette (“QPP Godfather for the Potton region”) and Officer, Jean-guy Caron made a surprise visit to a family in need in Potton in hopes of helping the family to enjoy a special Christmas.
“The objective,” explained Blanchette, “is to take the load off of the shoulders of the parents and family and to share an amazing holiday experience full of the magic of the season.”
This is not the first time that the Quebec Provincial Police have made a gesture like this. Blanchette shared his experiences in giving to an immigrant family in Outaouais, the previous region he served in. This was a gesture that Blanchette initiated personally and it was supported whole heartedly by his colleagues. While Blanchette cannot say if the gesture will be repeated in the coming years, he intends to try and keep the initiative going in the territory that he serves if at all possible.
For the family who benefitted from this tremendous show of kindness, the entire experience was overwhelming and brought them to tears. The police car arrived and was packed with gifts for each child including snow jackets, toys and special items selected with each of the children in mind. There was food and all that might be needed to make the holiday a merry one. The two officers sat on the floor and presented the children with their gifts and the room filled with excitement and gratitude. Surely this was a celebration that will never be forgotten nor matched.
It was hard to determine who was more moved by the experience, the parents or the officers for as the children shrieked in excitement, the smiles and tears on the adult’s faces really spoke volumes. This was indeed what Blanchette and Caron had hoped for and extended beyond what they expected. Children truly remind all of the excitement and magic of Christmas.
While the family will remain anonymous, the efforts of Blanchette, Caron and the entire Police department and the memories and joy spread this Christmas will long remain in their hearts.
Debra Harding, a member of the Missisquoi North Volunteer Centre (CABMN) staff team, helped the Police to coordinate the surprise and was able to accompany the officers when the delivery was made.
“It was amazing,” shared Harding. “The faces of the children were something I will not soon forget.” The CABMN is proud to work alongside the QPP and Officers Blanchette and Caron. In this particular case, a joyous experience was shared by all and the spirit of the season was at the forefront.