Santa Barbara Police save Christmas for a local family but housing issue looms

Finding out a local family was cash strapped at Christmas and on the verge of eviction, a tight group of Santa Barbara police officers organized a surprise.

A bicycle and toys were purchased for an eight year old in the family and a special delivery was made.

NewsChannel 3 learned of the Christmas miracle and found out Police Officer Blake Burgard was committed to the effort as soon as heard of the dire need. His family bought a bike immediately. He was backed by officers, Charles Venable, Andrew Freytag, Michaela Bebernes, and Anthony Tornello, along with the Police Activities League (PAL).

The department has been doing outreach programs at many levels throughout the city. In coordination with PAL, 11 bikes were purchased and donated to needy kids recently, with an officer dressed as Santa. This was an additinal effort spearheaded by Burgard.

In this case, officers also learned the family of five is on the verge of losing their housing by the end of January due to a financial issue. A solution is also being sought to help on that level as well.

For more information about PAL go to: http://www.santabarbarapal.org/