APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) – A beloved and kind tradition in Appleton returned Tuesday as children’s toys got to ride along with police officers.
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The Appleton Parks and Recreation Department partnered with Appleton’s Police Department, Fire Department and Public Works Department as local children sent their toys to the respective offices.
Toys were taken into squad cars and other official vehicles for a trip throughout the city to see how the people who serve and protect Appleton do their jobs daily.
Stuffed toys varied, from Pikachu, Dory and various other animals were among the sights in official vehicles.
Public Information Officer, Lieutenant John Ostermeier, said it’s a positive way to engage with families and children too young for the real ride-along program.
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“I think for the officers, it’s a good connection with community members and kids in the family,” Lt. Ostermeier said. “I hope it creates a long-lasting memory that their toys engaged in fun activities with an officer.”
And don’t worry, each toy comes back safe and sound, and each child gets regular updates on what their toy learned and saw during their trips.
