LIMA, OH (WLIO) — The Lima Police Department spread holiday cheer this week with a special show of appreciation for local hospital staff and patients.
For the first time, the department hosted its “Lights of Cheer” event, sending a procession of illuminated police cruisers to Saint Rita’s Medical Center and Lima Memorial Hospital. Officers, including members of the K-9 unit, were joined by Santa Claus as they delivered cards, treats, and words of thanks to hospital employees. The display also aimed to lift the spirits of patients spending the holidays in the hospital.
“We've seen this done in larger cities. And we thought, you know, we have two hospitals here in Lima, and we thought it would be a good way to give a little treat to the employees and just tell them thank you for what they do. And along with that, also to give a little bit of Christmas cheer to the people who may be stuck in the hospital over the holidays. And that's that was the main push behind why we wanted to do, this” says Chief Curtis Hile, Lima Police Department.
Santa Claus also took part in the visit, thanking hospital staff for their service.
“Ho, Ho, Ho. It's always a good time, and there's nothing better than being surrounded by my own heroes,” says Santa Claus.
Chief Hile says the department hopes to continue the “Lights of Cheer” tradition in the years to come.
