Fighting crime is what the Fayetteville Police Department routinely does. But each Christmas for the past 12 years, the department’s officers and staff are on a different mission. That mission involves making sure deserving kids have a happier Christmas.

Spokesman Mike Whitlow said department employees were joined by Santa Claus on Dec. 9 for the 12th Annual Christmas with the Police program.

“This year, through donations, the department provided gifts to five very deserving children, along with dinner and a gift for their families. The night also included a private visit with Santa and a bounty of Christmas spirit,” said Whitlow.

Whitlow said the department in its Christmas initiative is aided each year by several citizens who provide private donations to the program.

A number of local organizations and businesses also support the annual event. Those include the law firm of Stephen D. Ott, PC, the Fayette Civitan Club, the Kiwanis Club of Fayette County, Town Square Jewelers, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Helen Denton Post 3650, Sutton Enterprises/ Sunnyside Pawn Shop, Marco’s Pizza and Chick-Fil-A Towne Center.