NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — Newport News Police Chief Steve Drew made his rounds Christmas morning, bearing gifts for the first responders at the city's 911 Center.
Hand delivering pies is his way of saying thank you to the emergency dispatchers who work on Christmas Day. It's a tradition he does every year.
“For me, it’s just been a tradition and just a little bit of a way to give back,” Chief Drew said. “I think it’s just showing support for the men and women who do this job. They make a difference and I just want them to know that.”
The gesture means more than a sweet treat for those working the holiday.
“Today of all days, we appreciate that gratefulness and thankfulness because we aren’t able to be at our homes with our family,” said Newport News Public Safety Specialist Supervisor Christina Rawls.
Rawls said residents are also grateful for their response. She said her team understands how important their job is today and all year long.
“We all understand that they’re dealing with a great deal when they’re calling," Rawls said. "They’re calling in a stressful chaotic situation for themselves, and they need our help.”
“They take calls and hear things that most people never have to hear, and they also save lives,” Drew said.
He also uses it as an opportunity to connect with dispatchers. While there Monday, he even made a call to an officer on patrol, getting a taste of what these first responders do each day.
Chief Drew told 13News Now he also delivered pies to officers in each precinct working on Christmas.
“It’s just a little bit about the interaction and telling people thank you," he said. "Wishing them a happy holiday and Merry Christmas."