The Indianapolis community shows their support for police officers in big ways — the thousands of citizens who turned out to publicly mourn Office Rod Bradway, who was killed in the line of duty in September. But the small trauma kits assembled by volunteers from The Father’s House and the Boys & Girls Club of Indianapolis have already had a huge impact.
Earlier this year, the collaboration made up 200 kits, which were distributed to 200 officers. Just hours after the distribution, one of the kits was used to help save the life of a little boy who was shot in the arm on the east side. A day later, another kit was used to treat a wounded officer.
Ethel Winslow/Weekly View
An assembled trauma kit.
Realizing how important the trauma kits are, The Father’s House set a goal to create 1,000 trauma kits to distribute to every officer. The Indianapolis Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #86 joined in to help raise funds (the kits cost about $100 to make), and on October 10, ten volunteers from the Boys & Girls Club and The Father’s House met up to assemble another 300.
Cathy Brown of The Father’s House said that the kits themselves were unique. “The bags are specially designed, and we researched what the police on the street actually needed in the kits. We went out and bought the good stuff that can really help in an emergency.” The kit contains trauma shears, airway openers, a hemorrhage bandage, and a tourniquet. There’s also a card with a prayer hotline for first responders. The bag itself can be attached to the passenger side headrest in squad cars, and can be removed quickly when needed.
Major donors have stepped up to help the cause, including PNC Bank and the Colts, but individuals have also sent money. “It’s really touching . . . we got checks for $5, and that’s all that person could afford, but it is so appreciated.” The church is continuing fundraising efforts among businesses and schools, as well as individuals.
The volunteers learned to assemble the kits fast, while the inspectors, including The Father’s House Pastor Dr. Christopher T. Holland, and Detective Wayne Shelton, made sure everything was in place. The kits went to FOP headquarters, where they are distributed to police officers.
Detective Shelton is also a Deacon at the church, and has been for ten years. He’s delighted that the church has been a catalyst for positive change in the community. “It’s a testament to the selflessness of the people here, and our leadership.”
Robert Marshall, the Unit Director for the Lilly Boys & Girls Club of Indianapolis, said that he had no trouble getting volunteers for this service project. “These kids are happy to help and give back to the community,” he said.
Donations are still needed to create another 700 kits. Individuals can donate online at www.TheFathersHouseIndy.com or send checks to the Indianapolis Police Foundation of the FOP, Trauma Kits, 1525 Shelby St., Indianapolis IN 46203.
