DeLand police officers went above and beyond to lift up a local family they encountered during a call for service that had fallen on hard times. 

Several weeks ago, Bravo Shift responded to help a man who was in need of mental health assistance. Officer Burns maintained contact with the male, who states that the assistance provided to him on the night of the call has turned his life around. 

The family is still suffering from some financial hardship, but Officer Burns wanted the children in the home to have a good Christmas.  

Officer Burns utilized community resources and received a donation of toys and other items, which members of Bravo shift delivered to the family Friday morning. 

In a message shared with DPD the family said in part: “I want to thank DeLand Police Department and the officers in this pic for helping my husband and my family. I appreciate all you guys have done.” 

“This is an example of the good work our officers are doing in the community that goes above and beyond their regular duties,” said Chief Jason Umberger. “I could not be more proud of them.