On Tuesday, the Santa Rosa Sheriff’s Office showed their appreciation for a 10-year-old girl who left the entire department a special, thoughtful gift by posting her hand written Christmas card on the department’s Facebook page.
“It was very heartfelt and touching,” said Rich Aloy, the department’s public information officer. “We are very appreciative of what she did.”
According to the post on the SRSO’s social media website, 10-year-old Gracie Collins of East Milton dropped off a Christmas card and a bag of candy canes at the front receptionist’s desk at the administration building. Aloy said the receptionist asked the girl if the delivery was for anyone in particular, the girl said it was for everyone at the agency.
“It’s an incredible gesture during this difficult time,” Aloy said.
Aloy was speaking in reference to many protests against police brutality across the country.
“I don’t think it is right that people disrespect you,” Gracie Collins wrote in the letter. “I respect you. I appreciate all that you do for me and my family. I wish y’all have a merry and safe Christmas.”
Collins said it was the first time that she had ever written a Christmas card to the Sheriff’s office.
“I think it would be nice (to write them a letter) each year,” she said.
Collins said she was concerned after seeing the protests covered in the news, especially when two New York City police officers were shot and killed last Saturday.
“It’s not their fault,” she said.
While posted on Facebook, Gracie’s letter received nearly 2,000 likes, over 700 shares and more than 170 comments praising Collins on her letter.
The student at East Milton Elementary School was happy to hear how the officers reacted to her letter. Aloy said the letter was scanned to all everyone at the agency.
“It felt awesome,” Collins said in response to the agency’s reaction to her letter. “I was happy that they are excited about it.”
Aloy said agency officials would love the opportunity to personally thank Collins for her kind words.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Sheriff’s office receives “incredible gesture” from 10-year-old East Milton girl