GAYLORD--Michigan State Police troopers at the Gaylord post are helping to spread a bit of holiday cheer for people in need.
A three year long initiative is helping give back to people while building positive relationships with the community.
STOP stands for the State Trooper Outreach Partnership.
“We are a resource for the troopers. Let’s say they respond to a vehicle in a ditch that needs assistance the owner can’t afford for the tow bill. They’re on limited income or someone runs out of gas and they forgot their card at home, or they just don’t have a lot of money at that time, the troopers can contact ‘STOP’ and we can help pay for their bill,” said MSP trooper and ‘STOP’ president LT. Ashley Miller.
Recently ‘STOP’ helped pay a woman’s rent and a couple months of her car insurance that she was behind on. Lt. Miller said the woman didn’t think troopers would help.
“It is a little Christmas cheer, you know, this is the best time of year. And to be able to help makes me feel amazing, and the troopers too. We go above and beyond to serve our community here in Northern Michigan and everywhere in the state,” said LT. Miller.
The money for ‘STOP’ comes from the community. Annual fundraisers raise between 15 and 20 thousand dollars to support the program.
20- year Gaylord resident Scott Mason isn’t surprised that the community has stepped up to find ways to donate to STOP.
“Super cool thing, and I just feel like it fits in with the history that I’ve seen. Gaylord families helping out each other, and it’s a great thing to have happen at the holidays,” said Mason.
If your only experience with troopers is when you’re being pulled over, you may have a negative view of them. Mason said STOP helps humanize the image of law enforcement officers.
“I think it goes a long way to help kind of rebrand how the police are viewed, that they’re actually for you. They’re here to serve you and protect, and I’m really excited that this program is giving people a way to appreciate the police in a fresh way.”
