Hickory Police Urges Community Support for Cops for Tots 2025

UPDATE: The Hickory Police Department has just announced the kickoff of its annual Cops for Tots event, seeking immediate community support to bring holiday joy to local children in need. Applications are now open for families wishing to participate in the 2025 Cops for Tots Wish House, a program that has expanded significantly since its inception in the 1980s, which initially served only 12 families.

Families in Catawba, Burke, Alexander, and Caldwell Counties can apply online or in person, with Spanish applications available. To qualify, parents must present a current government-issued photo ID and either a Medicaid card or a birth certificate for each child. Note that families already receiving services from the Christmas Bureau in 2025 are not eligible. The age range for eligible children is from birth to 13 years old.

Citizens eager to contribute can drop off new, unwrapped toys at a collection box located at the Hickory Police Department or send monetary donations by mail. Notably, 100% of the proceeds will support the Christmas Wish House or related programs for kids, ensuring every contribution counts.

The Cops for Tots Wish House is set to open from December 10 to December 12 at the Hickory Police Training Annex. Two daily sessions are planned, running from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.. This event not only represents the community’s dedication to supporting less fortunate children but also strengthens the police department’s role in fostering positive community relations.

The Hickory Police Department is calling upon locals to step up and help brighten the holidays for children in need. For questions or additional details, individuals can reach out via the designated extension for the Cops for Tots program or email the police department directly. Contact information is available on the city’s website, along with application details.

Join the movement today to ensure a joyful holiday season for children across our community!