THUNDER BAY – Members of local law enforcement were serving the community in a different way on Wednesday.
The “Law Enforcement Serving You” event saw local OPP, TBPS and corrections officers waiting tables at Boston Pizza in support of Special Olympics.
Ten per cent of the event’s sales go to the Law Enforcement Torch Run - the largest public awareness and grassroots fundraising organization for Special Olympics globally.
“It’s something that law enforcement has been involved with for many, many years and really just showing support and that we're staying involved and want to be active and participate and joining some of the athletes and special events like today,” said TPBS Chief Darcy Fleury.
The Law Enforcement Serving You event has been held for the last 20 years at Boston Pizza.
Sharon Mercier, community relations coordinator, said Boston Pizza is happy to continue the tradition.
“We've been in the community for so many years that it's important for us to give back. Special Olympics is just one of the organizations that we give to and, you've seen the athletes and you've met them. You've seen how inspiring they are and how dedicated they are to Special Olympics and their respective sports,” she said.
“For us to be able to help them stay involved, you know, it's fun for us, but it's also heartwarming too and just another way for us to give back to the community.”
She added that the officers have been performing well at their roles, especially the ones who keep coming back year after year.
“There are some officers who have probably served before and they're just ready to take over and our staff are hanging back, enjoying the help,” she said.
“And then there's some officers that you'd think they'd be ready to jump in because of their careers. But, it can be a little nerve wracking to be carrying trays of drinks or food or serving people when it's not your usual cup of tea, but they do a great job.”
The Law Enforcement Torch Run will be happening in June.
