The Haines City Police Department’s Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) unit is looking for donations to take deserving children to Gatorland this summer as a celebration for excelling inside the classroom and out.

The COPS unit is also looking for interested children between ages 6 and 12 interested in taking part in “Fun with Cops & Crocs” on June 25. Children must have passing grades and no prior issues with law enforcement. Children must have a Haines City address or live inside the city limits of Haines City.

The goal of the COPS unit is to strengthen the bond between the Police Department and the community and to mentor the youth. The purpose of the trip is to strengthen those bonds, give back, offer a day of fun, and recognize accomplishments. 

In the event that the demand exceeds the number of available spaces, the grade-point average may be taken into consideration. Transportation from the Haines City Police Department, 35400 U.S. 27, to Gatorland and back will be provided as will lunch.

Departure is set for about 9 a.m. and return is set for about 3 p.m. Students will need to be brought to the Police Department and picked up. If you have a special need, an exception may be made.

The trip will be funded entirely through private donations, which the Haines City Police Department continues to seek. Parents can attend and serve as chaperones, but will be subject to a background check and must pay for their own lunches.

Those interested in making a donation can contact Sgt. Christopher Colon at 863-242-2188. Those interested in having their children take part in the trip must show their child’s report card and proof of residence during normal business hours, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and sign a waiver.

Images of report cards, residency and waiver requests can be emailed to Public Information Officer Mike Ferguson at mferguson@hainescitypd.com.