Operation Guns and Roses: Waynesville officers on a Valentine's mission
Feb. 17—The Waynesville Police Department led an expedition of roses and candy on Valentine's Day, visiting five local nursing homes and Haywood County REACH to offer a little love to those in the community that can sometimes be overlooked.
Over 200 roses went to the ladies and 90 bags of candy were given out to the gentleman by a group of 10 police officers who fanned around the town.
The idea for the Valentine's excursion was inspired by a podcast that Police Chief David Adams happened across. The podcast talked about reaching out with kindness by taking flowers to domestic violence centers on Valentine's Day — which can be a triggering day for those who have experienced domestic violence.
"I just thought it would be nice to maybe show people a little positive attention and let them know we care," said Adams. "The officers here really do a great job of giving back to the community."
The chief included local nursing homes on the list of recipients as well, since those who live in nursing homes and assisted living facilities don't get out in the community like they once did. While they can sometimes be overlooked in the day-to-day hustle and bustle of life, our elderly neighbors are still a valuable part of the community.
"This is something police departments don't usually do," said Adams. "It's good to get out and do something locally for the community and let them know the police department recognizes them and cares."
On the scene
Officer Josh Williams was a part of the crew that handed out roses at Autumn Care of Waynesville.
He expressed how little things like giving someone a simple rose can make their day and let them know they are valued members of the community.
"It's a simple and sweet gesture to let them know they are a part of the community, and we care for them," said Williams. "It makes me happy that we are going out into the community and giving back."
Williams, as well as Officer Eric Dickey and Officer Tyler Howell, roamed the halls of Autumn Care, knocking on doors, being greeted by residents in the hallways and stopping for the occasional photo-op with an all-to-eager crowd, thrilled to be handed a rose or candy by the men in uniform.
Brenda Mehaffey and her aunt, Betty Queen, share a room at the Autumn Care facility and were surprised by the officer's kind gestures on the special day. While getting ready for their lunch, the two were handed a pair of roses to accompany their dining experience.
"That is very kind of them," said Mehaffey. "We didn't expect to get a rose today, this is really nice."
Autumn Care Admissions Director Connie Cooper was thrilled to see the officers at the facility handing out roses and kindness. Cooper expressed how important the partnership is with the Waynesville Police Department and EMS as they can play a vital and much needed role at the location, not only to the residents but the staff as well.
"The police department and EMS are big advocates for us, and we appreciate and adore them," said Cooper. "We try our best to acknowledge them when we can."
