Tips for Cops fundraiser has huge turnout; organizers set goal of $6,000 to help needy
Monroeville police Officer Robert Gowans said cops can sometimes get a bad rap.
That wasn’t possible on Oct. 19, when off-duty officers turned out in force to help the less fortunate.
Police from Penn Hills, Wilkins, Churchill and Monroeville traded in their uniforms for aprons to serve a hungry crowd at a William Penn Highway hot spot, Carl’s Tavern.
Churchill Officer Libbi Toth said 100% of the day’s tips would be donated to local food banks so needy residents don’t go hungry this winter.
The restaurant also pledged 10% of the total sales, according to co-owner Brock Harrison. The Tips for Cops fundraiser aimed to raise more than $6,000 and brought in over $8,000.
“It’s a way for us to give back,” Gowans said. “All the money goes to a good cause to make sure people get the help they need.”
The fundraiser, back for the first time after a covid-related hiatus, offers the public a chance to interact with police in an informal setting, many officers said. Football games were on the TVs, burgers and other food were served and music blared, making for a fun atmosphere.
Penn Hills Detective Bill Skweres and K-9 Cypress were a highlight of the day. People couldn’t wait until Cypress made his way to their table.
“This is a great way to support our guys and girls,” said Jill Hodges, a dispatcher for Allegheny County, while showing the dog some love.
Proceeds benefit the Rosedale Food Pantry, Penn Hills Service Association and Mt. Zion Church, all in Penn Hills.
Heading into the holidays, when food banks traditionally feel the crunch, “it’s nice to give them a cushion,” Toth said.
In addition to tips, money was raised through T-shirt sales, a 50-50 raffle and dozens of baskets donated by local businesses. Prizes included a bit of everything, from coffee to gift cards, and pet supplies to Steelers merchandise.
“It’s a great opportunity for the community to see officers in a different role,” said Penn Hills Officer Lindsey Bigger.
Her chief, Jason Bonace, considers the event a vital community building block.
“To me, it’s one of the best events of the year,” Bonace said. “It’s been a beautiful turnout.”
Tawnya Panizzi is a TribLive reporter. She joined the Trib in 1997. She can be reached at tpanizzi@triblive.com.
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