Christmas Message

As we enter the Christmas Weekend, I can't help but think about the amazing expressions of kindness and generosity I've seen demonstrated during the holiday season.  It should come as no surprise though, because for as long as I can remember, I've witnessed the same. 

In our county we have those who live comfortably, and we have those who, despite doing their best to make ends meet, still find themselves struggling.  Just paying rent and keeping the utilities on can be tough sometimes.

But we as a community are incredibly fortunate, and as your Sheriff I've been blessed with a front row seat for several years, to see the true kindness and generosity of the citizens of this county, particularly during the Christmas Season.

This year has been no different.  Many of you supported the Cherokee County ToyBox Program, which will provide gifts for hundreds of kids to unwrap on Christmas morning.  Some have provided funds to help struggling families with groceries so they can have a nice Christmas meal. 

That's probably what has struck me the most this year.  Thanks to the generosity of an area business, we were recently able to provide some groceries to a single mom working two jobs.  This mom is just doing the best she can and was not looking for a handout whatsoever.

When approached about receiving help, she was humble and simply asked for some milk and cereal for her kids.  When we delivered a wide range of groceries to her earlier this week, including ham and complete Christmas dinner, the ice box was empty.  Literally empty.  She was overwhelmed with gratitude.  Not only was her fridge filled, but so was her heart and the weight on her shoulders became a little less.

Christmas is the day we celebrate the gift of mercy, grace and forgiveness through the birth of our Savior and no matter how you demonstrate those same gifts to others, whether through supporting the ToyBox Program, a Community Angel Tree, paying for the order for the person behind you in the drive thru, or any other ways that cost nothing at all, like holding the door for someone, giving a wave or a cheerful and sincere Merry Christmas to the clerk at the store, I hope you all will take a few moments on Christmas morning to pause and think of the impact you've had on others and how you helped make this season special.

I wish you all a safe and very Blessed Christmas,

Sheriff David Groves.