GREAT FALLS – The holiday season is a time when generosity is in focus, and a time to say thank you to those around us.
Along with gratitude, delicious treats are also synonymous with the season. A group of Great Falls students from Treasure State Academy went beyond the baked goods for those behind the badge.
On Thursday, elementary-aged children showed up for the afternoon briefing at the Great Falls Police Department with goodies and notes in hand.
“We just need to thank them for all they do, and I bet they don’t get thanked that often,” said Treasure State Academy 4th grade student Auston Matz.
Treasure State Academy teacher Katie Matz explained students have focused on random acts of kindness in the community and decided to show gratitude to law enforcement.
“I had contacted the police department and they told us how many officers are here, and the kids said we want to go and make each one a Christmas card and write a note,” said Matz.
From officers to evidence technicians, the students delivered 92 handwritten cards along with eight dozen homemade cookies.
“To show that we are thinking about the police officers, and to show thanks for what they do for our community,” explained Treasure State Academy 3rd grade student Jadon Fuller.
“It’s awesome. Every member on the police department has felt this today. These kids coming in, taking the time out of their day, not only making the handwritten cards, but they baked cookies and brought them in, and what police officer doesn’t love a good baked cookie?” said Great Falls Police Department Senior Police Officer Jon Marshall.
After dropping off the edible expressions of thanks, students got a tour of the police station including an opportunity to try on handcuffs, see where the police chief works, and sit inside an armored vehicle.
“I think what stuck out to me the most is how many people work here, and how many of them just don’t get appreciated,” reflected Auston Matz.
-Reported by Shannon Newth/MTN News
