As I stated in a previous article, a police officer in my town was shot during a routine traffic stop by a man who expressed his beliefs about police brutality by hurting an innocent police officer. While my opinions on that issue are expressed in the previous article, I decided to provide an update and focus on the positive.
From the moment that the community was made aware of the shooting, the police department was flooded with phone calls of good vibes, prayers, and offers for help. An overwhelming amount of donations of food, water, and cards was given to the department. The department was so overwhelmed, they had to post that they could no longer receive donations for food and pointed everyone in direction of the GoFundMe page created for Officer Flamion.
A blue ribbon initiative has taken place all over our town as well. Individuals who are in support for the police put blue ribbons on their mailboxes, trees, etc. A day after seeing a post about this on Facebook, I couldn't drive 2 minutes without seeing a blue ribbon!
Everyday, our community sees something new: lemonade stands, runs, t-shirt orders, and anything else you could possibly think of! All to raise money because of one persons idea to express their beliefs about police brutality.
Out of all of these fundraisers, there was one that struck home the most. A few food establishments in the area decided that they would like to have a fundraiser and have some of the proceeds go to Officer Flamion's GoFundMe page. A few were signed up initially. I periodically checked the page. More and more businesses decided to hop on board to help out one of our police officers. The day of the event around 30 businesses ended up being involved with a grand total donations coming to be around $61,000! Talk about a successful fundraiser! But, I think more than just money can show the support. I heard just around town that some waits for restaurants were four hours long. For those whom didn't want to wait, they could put money in a donation jar.
During the day of the event, the Ballwin Police Department did put out a statement that Officer Flamion is paralyzed from the neck down and breathing on a ventilator. Did that stop the community? Nope! It just gave the community more of a reason to show awareness and give hope!
The support and fundraising have yet to cease. Everyday more events keep popping up! The Cardinals have teamed up to help. Even bands, have made visits to come help out!
So to all those doubting and hating, look what just what one community can do to counteract reactions to police brutality. As just a single citizen of Ballwin, I would like to thank everyone for their love and support for this cause! In a world that is full of war and hate, you give me a reason to smile!
