Last week, the Lakewood Police Foundation hosted a first-ever Chanukah party for children battling illness.

However, several children were unable to attend in person, and the Lakewood Police Chief and team were not going to let the children down.

On Thursday, Police Foundation President and Community Affairs Liaison Ben Inzelbuch walked into Toys 4 U, and once again shopped for dozens of toys – sponsored by Toys 4 U.

Later that night, the Chief and his team drove around town,  personally delivering gifts to the children – and they were ecstatic.

Here’s what one of the parents wrote:

“Dear Chief Meyer,

We are so grateful to you and the entire department. We know how busy you are making sure we are all safe and protecting our town. We were ecstatic to be invited to your Chanuka party. Unfortunately we were unable to attend due to a surgery scheduled that morning. So we thank you you for coming out personally to our home with a whole entourage with lights sirens and all!! You made Yaakov feel like a million dollars – it will be a moment to remember. Thank you so much for all the unnecessary gifts as well, they just added to the excitement!”

Chief Meyer says events like these bring him joy.

“The party held last week was out of this world, and we wanted these children to feel part of it and not left behind,” said Police Chief Greg Meyer. “Knowing we could bring the children such joy is very rewarding.”

Ben Inzelbuch echoed the Chief’s comments, and added, “seeing the smiles on these children’s faces is worth it all. We’ll do whatever it takes to give these children a reason to smile, whether it’s during Chanukah, or any other time of the year.”