Much the same as Clark Kent would change into his Superman outfit at the speed of light, women, and men in blue handed in their uniforms for a day to turn into a fictional heroic character.
Chief Jeffrey Maddrey of the Patrol Borough Brooklyn North led his group into their 4th annual Sleigh ride on Saturday, Dec. 21. Officials of the NYPD accumulated presents to give out to children in a few areas in Brooklyn.
This year over 10,000 presents were distributed to hopeful children, and it was a success. Chief Maddrey explained, “Every year, this event grows and keeps getting better.”
A family that lost the entirety of their belongings in a brutal fire was given a 50’ television, play station 4, and dolls for their children to start them off for a fresh start.
Characters expanded to 24 superheroes such as, Spider-man, Spier-Gwen, Ironman, Captain America, Superman, Supergirl, Aqua-Man, Black Panther, Star-Lord, Groot, Flash, Kylo-Ren, Black Warriors, Black Widow, Wasp, Batman, Catwoman, Gamora, Batgirl, and Robyn to name a few.
The crowd cheered as officials arrived at the designated locations. The superheroes appeared in a truck getting the children pumped with dancing and music as News 12 Katie Lusso joined in to film the excitement for her segment.
Detective Jean-Mary has been the photographer since this awesome event began in 2015. He told Kings County Politics, “I get to capture the look on children’s faces as they receive gifts, and it’s timeless.”
John Cardillo, a parent and resident of East New York, offered his gratitude to the police officers and expressed much it helps financially.
Not only do these police officers participate in the sleigh ride, but they also dedicate a day to visit hospitals in Brooklyn and deliver gifts to sick children who can, unfortunately, not make it home due to illness.
It was, indeed, a wonderful and magical holiday season!
