Law enforcement officers in Pike County pledge to protect and serve the community where they live, but for some officers, that commitment extends far beyond their job responsibilities.

Through two main events, a rib sale in the spring and a Boston butt, camp stew sale in the fall, the local Fraternal Order of Police uses money raised each year to help in the community where they work.

“With our jobs, we see areas of the community that face troubling issues, whether it is crime or fire or something else,” said Troy Police Sgt. Michael O’Hara, who also serves as the local FOP president. “We like to find some way to give back other than our usual responsibility as peace officers.”

Through the FOP’s last fund-raiser, the group collected about $2,500 to be used in the Pike County area. This Christmas $1,000 of that money will go to a Brundidge family who lost their home in a devastating fire last Friday night while they were at church.

“When someone is really in need and they are hit with a tragedy that we are able to help with, that is always rewarding,” O’Hara said. “But it seems even more heartwarming during this special time of year.”

O’Hara said the FOP helps when they can, both physically and financially, and needs are usually brought to the group’s attention by officers and sometimes community members.

The local FOP is made up of officers from the Troy Police Department, Pike County Sheriff’s Office and law enforcement officers from other agencies who live in the area.

To pass along a need in the community, get general information about the FOP, or to donate or get involved, email mohara142@gmail.com.

For information on how to help the Brundidge family who lost their home last Friday, call (334) 735-0499.