Police Departments Launched Christmas Fundraising Competition

Local agencies have begun a festive campaign to provide gift cards for families in need this holiday season.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Philanthropy

Bold vector editorial illustration of knit mittens and a glowing lantern on a snowy windowsill, representing holiday community support. — Police departments in Green Bay are hosting a holiday fundraising competition to provide gift cards to families in need. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Police departments have kicked off the Police Lights of Christmas, a fundraising competition where agencies compete to support families in need. The initiative converts monetary donations into gift cards for local residents struggling during the holiday season.

Why it matters

The program aims to alleviate financial pressure on families throughout the holiday season by leveraging community support for local law enforcement agencies. By turning donations into direct aid, the effort fosters a connection between officers and citizens during a sensitive time of year.

The fundraising campaign is currently underway with 80 days remaining until Christmas. Donors cast votes for participating departments by making monetary contributions, which are then converted into gift cards for local families.

The players

Police Lights of Christmas

This is a collaborative charitable fundraising initiative where police departments raise money to support families in need.

The details

Participating departments have submitted photographs of their officers engaged in child-themed activities to anchor the 2026 theme of Cops are kids at heart. Residents contribute by voting with their dollars, directly funding the holiday gift card distribution for those in the Green Bay area.

October 6, 2026: The initiative and its theme were officially announced.
December 25, 2026: The holiday season concludes as the fundraising impact is realized.

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Market Landscape

This initiative follows a pattern set by national community policing strategies that prioritize charitable engagement to build local trust. It reflects a broader shift among law enforcement agencies toward soft-power outreach to strengthen public relations in their respective jurisdictions.

Residents in Green Bay can participate by donating to their preferred police department to help fund gift cards for neighbors in need. This direct financial contribution provides tangible relief to families struggling with holiday expenses.

The takeaway

This competition offers a unique way for the public to engage with law enforcement through charitable giving rather than enforcement activities. By participating, residents directly influence which agencies receive support while helping ease the financial burden for local families this winter.