HPD Special Victim Unit host Christmas party for child victims

HATTIESBURG, Miss. - Christmas arrived early this year for six special families in Hattiesburg Wednesday. In place of reindeer and elves, the Hattiesburg Police Department stepped up to make it very merry.

“Today we picked some very beautiful kids to give a Christmas to. Most of them are a victim of a violent crime or their parents were a victim of a violent crime. We just want to share the Christmas spirit, some love to the neighborhood to let them know that we are here for them and to put a smile on their face.” said Lt. LaTosha Meyers.

The program kicked off with singing, the preaching of Christmas gospel and photos with Santa Claus. Howvever, HPD did not pull of the party alone. The Southern Miss Chapter of the Fellowship Christian Athletes and USM football coaches’ wives helped spread the holiday cheer.

“You’ve got young people who lost a parent or has a parent somewhere that’s maybe not in a good place. Having that opportunity to present a Christmas gift and of course have Mrs. Michelle Hopson who is the wife of our head football coach...just give out gift, its just awesome." said Mitchell Williams, Director of Fellowship Christian Athletes.

This is Hattiesburg's second consecutive year hosting the Christmas party.